Sandro Tonali, Nick Waltemaid and Kieran Trippier (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
Paris Saint-Germain appear determined to beat Juventus in their bid for Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali.
The Italy international has shone during his time at St James’ Park, but it’s clear it may be a bit difficult for the Magpies to keep him.
According to Tutto Juve, there is growing interest in Tonali from Europe’s elite, with Juventus said to be in pole position to finalize a deal, while PSG are also said to be very keen on making a move as well.
According to Transfermarkt, Tonali’s market valuation is around €60 million, but given that his contract expires in 2028, his price is likely to be significantly higher as there is little pressure on Newcastle to accept such a thing.
Can Newcastle keep Sandro Tonali?
NUFC have made great progress under their current ownership, but it will still take some time for them to truly establish themselves as an established top-four team, regularly competing in the Champions League and challenging for major silver medals.
Newcastle were unable to hold on to Alexander Isak when Liverpool came calling this summer and it may be difficult to stop Tonali from making a big move.
The 25-year-old looks well-equipped to make an impact with big names like Juve and PSG, and it will be interesting to see if he pushes ahead with such a move.
Where could Tonali go next?
For now, Tonali’s main options seem to be Juventus and PSG, but one imagines that list could grow further.
It could make sense for the former AC Milan player to aim for a return to his native Italy, and at least it would mean Newcastle won’t lose him to their Premier League rivals as was the case with Isak.
Still, with the loss of Issac, it seems important for Newcastle to show that they are not an unsold club that keeps losing big names like this every transfer window, so Eddie Howe and co will do everything in their power to keep Tonali.