“Exactly, that was the goal” – Sandro Tonali’s agent on Manchester City links amid Newcastle United exit talk | OneFootball

Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali has been linked with a summer exit amid interest from Arsenal, Manchester City and Manchester United, as per a new report.

The Magpies have developed into a force to be reckoned with in the Premier League under Eddie Howe and their midfield has been a big part of that growth.

Sandro Tonali has been one of the team’s most vital players this season, controlling the pace of the game and holding their structure. The Italian’s resurgence has been impressive after facing several challenges upon his arrival to England from Italy.

After serving a 10-month ban – that ended in August 2024 – imposed by the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) for gambling on football matches, including his own teams, while at AC Milan and Newcastle, Tonali came back with a new focus and has become a regular part of Howe’s system.

How Tonali fits in at City under Guardiola

His ability to play both as a deep-lying playmaker and a progressive carrier has changed the way Newcastle’s midfield operates. The north-east outfit have relied on their midfield to press intensely and operate at a high tempo throughout the campaign, with Tonali often acting as the link between defence and attack.

Moreover, his acumen in reading the game and recycling possession has helped the club’s high-intensity approach, which has kept them competitive against the best teams, both in domestic and European club competitions.

This transformation has not gone unnoticed. Interest from major clubs has been steadily rising, especially as Newcastle continue to push for European qualifications.

Tonali’s performances have made him one of the most wanted midfielders in the Premier League since his style fits perfectly with teams that want to control the game and have technical security in the midfield.

Tonali open to Man City and Arsenal move, says agent

Attention has now intensified following comments from his agent Giuseppe Riso. Speaking to Calcio E Finanza recently, Riso asserted that moving to England was always part of a bigger plan to help the player’s career develop.

“The deal came about because a club like Newcastle with unlimited financial resources had decided to invest in Sandro,” Riso said, as quoted by Get Football News Italy. “We considered the idea of having the player play in a higher-level league.”

When asked directly about a possible move from Tyneside to Arsenal or Manchester City, the midfielder’s agent added: “Exactly, that was the goal from the moment he went to England – to try to make him a star player. I think he’s the Italian footballer with one of the highest values in the world.”

Riso also highlighted the role of English football culture in Tonali’s development, particularly the support he received during his suspension.

Impact of English football on Tonali’s rise post-ban

“In England, the mentality is different and every time Sandro entered the stadium (St. James’ Park) – despite his suspension – he received a standing ovation from the crowd,” Riso said.

“We’re talking about a guy who made a mistake, the fans noticed and he was forgiven. Now, Sandro has completely changed.”

Manchester United and Juventus have also been mentioned as prospective suitors but any deal is likely to be very expensive. Newcastle’s position is still strong and the midfielder’s price tag will probably keep him out of reach of a few interested parties – unless they are ready to make a substantial investment.

Is Tonali a good fit for Man City?

Tonali fits Manchester City‘s long-term midfield plans as he possesses the right technical expertise, is tactically intelligent and can play well even when operating under strict positional and tactical instructions.

However, any move would depend on the overall larger context of the squad and any players who might leave. As the summer transfer window gets nearer, Tonali’s situation is likely to be one of the most closely watched developments.

His agent’s comments don’t confirm an upcoming departure but they indicate that Tonali would be open to joining one of the best teams in the Premier League.