Transfer news: Arsenal open talks with Newcastle over Sandro Tonali

Transfer news: Arsenal have revived their interest in Sandro Tonali and reopened preliminary discussions with Newcastle United, with Mikel Arteta identifying the Italy international as his primary midfield target heading into a significant summer of investment at the Emirates. According to TuttoMercatoWeb, initial enquiries between both clubs took place a few days ago, with conversations continuing around the structure and figures of a potential deal.

The Gunners first explored the possibility of signing Tonali in January, though the timing made any deal impossible, with contacts now resuming as both clubs begin establishing the parameters of a potential transfer. Newcastle are reportedly open to a sale for around £87 million following their failure to qualify for next season’s Champions League, a figure driven partly by PSR obligations that are pressing the club to move on key assets. Tonali currently earns approximately £150,000 per week at St James’ Park, and any suitor will need to offer a substantial salary uplift to attract him.

Transfer news: The competition Arsenal face

Arsenal and Manchester City have both held initial talks, while Manchester United and Chelsea have also registered firm interest, making this one of the most crowded midfield pursuits of the summer window. Real Madrid have additionally sent scouts to monitor Tonali during Newcastle’s recent fixtures, and Newcastle reportedly prefer to sell abroad rather than strengthen a domestic rival directly.

Tonali himself is open to leaving St James’ Park, with his preference leaning towards a return to Italy, though Serie A clubs lack the financial muscle to match Newcastle’s asking price. Across 53 appearances this season, Tonali registered three goals and seven assists, demonstrating exactly why so many top clubs are circling.

Transfer news: Can Arsenal actually win this race?

Honestly, Arsenal’s chances here are real but far from straightforward. The Gunners already carry considerable midfield depth with Declan Rice, Martin Zubimendi, Mikel Merino, and Myles Lewis-Skelly all available, yet the injury burden on key players like Rice could expose the squad if reliable cover does not arrive.

Transfer News: Arsenal, United & Chelsea chase £60m midfielder as Zubimendi form fades

Arsenal move purposefully in transfer windows, securing Viktor Gyokeres, Martin Zubimendi and Eberechi Eze last summer, and Arteta has shown he builds squads with Champions League ambitions at the forefront. The stumbling block remains Newcastle’s domestic-rival reluctance and Tonali’s personal preference for Italy. Furthermore, Manchester United carry real momentum in this race too. Arsenal will need to move faster and more decisively than the rest, and given their current trajectory, that is genuinely within reach.