Newcastle United interested in Aleksandar Stankovic as a potential replacement for Sandro Tonali | OneFootball

Newcastle United have identified Club Brugge’s rising star Aleksandar Stankovic as a target for the upcoming summer transfer window.

With speculation mounting over Sandro Tonali’s long-term future at St James’ Park, the Magpies are actively exploring midfield reinforcements.

Aleksandar, son of legendary Inter Milan midfielder Dejan Stankovic, who recently described him as ‘phenomenal’, has quickly become one of the most sought-after young midfielders in European football.

The 20-year-old Serbian international has enjoyed a breakthrough campaign in Belgium, scoring nine goals and providing five assists in 54 appearances across all competitions.

His technical ability, tactical discipline, and impressive set-piece delivery have caught the attention of Newcastle’s recruitment team.

Stankovic’s physicality and aggressive defensive work rate make him a strong fit for the high-intensity demands of Eddie Howe’s midfield system.

However, securing the youngster’s services will not be straightforward for Newcastle. Stankovic joined Club Brugge from Inter Milan last year, but the Serie A giants retained a €23m buyback clause valid for this summer.

Reports from Italy suggest that Inter plan to trigger this option in June, either to integrate him into their first-team squad or to sell him on for a profit.

Alongside Brentford, Newcastle are one of two Premier League clubs keen on Stankovic. Should Inter choose to cash in on the growing English interest, it could spark a bidding war.

For the Magpies, Stankovic represents both a long-term investment and an immediate tactical solution should Tonali depart.

With his ability to dictate the tempo from deep and anchor the midfield, the Serbian starlet has the tools to replicate—and potentially surpass—the tactical versatility Newcastle sought when signing Tonali.