Newcastle United are looking to make a move that will annoy rival fans, as they seek a replacement for the banned Sandro Tonali
(Image credit: Matt McNulty/Getty Images)
Newcastle United are closing in on a replacement for Sandro Tonali – which could light a touchpaper under the Premier League.
The Toon are have lost their Italian midfield maestro for 10 months, following a ban from the Italian Football Association, with Tonali set to miss the rest of the season and the Azzurri's title defence at Euro 2024. Competing on four fronts this term, Newcastle are now turning attention to replacements.
Loan moves have been touted to replace Tonali in the short-term – and one particular idea has been met with unhappiness from some on social media.
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe is looking for cover for the banned Sandro Tonali (Image credit: Getty Images)
According to Italian outlet Tuttomercatoweb, the Magpies are exploring a loan deal for Ruben Neves.
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With the Tyneside outfit unable to afford a top-class replacement outright due to Financial Fair Play restrictions, the report has noted that the shared ownership of the two clubs "can help the success of the operation".
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Multi-club models are extremely controversial in football and the idea that Newcastle could circumvent FFP simply because their owners have a stake in Saudi Arabian clubs brings a question of unfairness to the Premier League.
Ruben Neves is being linked with a controversial return to the Premier League (Image credit: WWFC/Wolves via Getty Images)
On the pitch at least, Neves would be seen as the ideal replacement for Tonali, as a strong defensive presence able to play either as a defensive midfielder or a No.8.
The 26-year-old is valued at €40 million by Transfermarkt.
Mark White has been at on FourFourTwo since joining in January 2020, first as a staff writer before becoming content editor in 2023. An encyclopedia of football shirts and boots knowledge – both past and present – Mark has also represented FFT at both FA Cup and League Cup finals (though didn't receive a winners' medal on either occasion) and has written pieces for the mag ranging on subjects from Bobby Robson's season at Barcelona to Robinho's career. He has written cover features for the mag on Mikel Arteta and Martin Odegaard, and is assisted by his cat, Rosie, who has interned for the brand since lockdown.
