Newcastle United reject Sandro Tonali departure claims

Over recent weeks, talk of Manchester United targeting Sandro Tonali has grown as he looks to be the key target set to lead The Red Devils summer midfield rebuild.

Veteran midfielder Casemiro is leaving Old Trafford after four years, leaving on his best season at the club to date, meaning that a replacement is needed ready for the 2026/27 campaign.

To fill his boots, partnering with Kobbie Mainoo in the middle of the pitch, Newcastle United’s Tonali is the keen favourite for The Red Devils, with Michael Carrick’s side currently front-runners to get him.

However, the story has taken an unexpected twist.

Earlier today, it was announced that a gentleman’s agreement was put in place for Sandro Tonali to leave St James’ Park this summer if the club fail to qualify for European football.

Now, Luke Edwards of the Telegraph has reported on X that this isn’t the case.

According to Edwards, The Magpies have spoken to the media to explain that no such gentleman’s agreement is in place.

He also explained that whilst this doesn’t rule out him leaving in the summer, he hasn’t yet said he wants to leave Newcastle.

It’s also understood that Newcastle are yet to receive any contact from interested parties, with Barcelona, Real Madrid, Manchester City and Arsenal all linked alongside The Red Devils.

For now, this is a huge addition and u-turn in the saga that looks set to keep building until the summer transfer window opens.

However, with Italy now through to the 2026 World Cup qualifier play-offs, the midfielder’s attention is firmly on international duty, having been vital for the national team tonight.

Tonali opened the scoring against Northern Ireland just after half-time before assisting Moise Kean in the 80th minute, showing he can be vital for club and country as Italy won 2-0.