Newcastle United want to strengthen their midfield this summer with the introduction of a superstar compared to the great Andrea Pirlo
(Image credit: Dan Istitene/Getty Images)
Newcastle United could be poised to bring "the new Andrea Pirlo" to Tyneside, as Eddie Howe's revolution continues.
The Magpies have enjoyed a rapid rise in the past 12 months, comfortably qualifying for the Champions League last season. Now, they're in a position to strengthen across the squad and establish themselves as regulars at this level.
Intriguingly, defensive midfield seems to be an area that the Toon would like to improve on – despite having Bruno Guimaraes as a world-class No.6, with Howe wanting to move his Brazilian forward in the side.
Newcastle midfielder Bruno Guimaraes could be set for a more offensive role (Image credit: Stu Forster/Getty Images)
Tonali has frequently been compared in his young career to Andrea Pirlo. The pair both began at Brescia and have been lauded for an elegant holding midfield style – though Tonali is a slightly different player to the legendary regista.
"The Athletic has reported that Newcastle hope to sign two midfielders this summer – a defensive and a more versatile option – with a wide forward, a centre-back and a full-back also sought," the report adds.
Chelsea are also said to be interested in Tonali. The midfielder's contract doesn't end until 2027, however.
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Sandro Tonali is on the list for Newcastle (Image credit: Pier Marco Tacca/AC Milan via Getty Images)
Newcastle have also been interested in James Maddison as a more attacking option in the midfield trio.
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.
