Newcastle United Reportedly Eyeing Ruben Neves as Replacement for Sandro Tonali
Newcastle United is said to be considering a potential January move for Al-Hilal midfielder Ruben Neves as they search for a replacement for Sandro Tonali, who has been banned from playing due to gambling violations. Italy’s football federation recently confirmed Tonali’s 10-month suspension, which means he will miss the rest of the Premier League season and next summer’s European Championships. This news comes as a significant blow to Newcastle, who are already dealing with injuries to key players.
Manager Eddie Howe has acknowledged the strain on his small squad and is expected to bring in a new midfielder during the January transfer window. Tonali was a marquee signing for Newcastle in the summer, and his absence leaves a void in the team’s midfield. Initially, there were links to Manchester City’s Kalvin Phillips and Manchester United’s Scott McTominay as potential replacements. However, recent reports suggest that Ruben Neves may be the prime candidate.
According to The Sun, Newcastle has already begun exploring the possibility of a loan move for Neves. However, this potential deal could raise eyebrows among rival Premier League clubs. It is worth noting that Newcastle is owned by the Saudi Public Investment Fund, which also owns Al-Hilal and three other clubs in the Saudi Pro League. Neves recently moved to Al-Hilal from Wolves in a £47 million deal during the summer transfer window. A quick return to the Premier League, either on loan or for a reduced fee, could raise questions about the relationship between Newcastle and Al-Hilal.
The Guardian also reports Newcastle’s interest in Neves but suggests that McTominay or Phillips may be preferred due to their better fit with Howe’s aggressive pressing style. The decision ultimately rests with Newcastle’s management, who will need to weigh the pros and cons of each potential signing.
Meanwhile, Sandro Tonali will spend the next eight months engaging in a rehabilitation program that includes at least 16 trips to Italy to talk to players at various levels of football about the dangers of gambling. He will also visit addiction clinics during this time. Failure to fulfill these engagements could result in an additional eight-month ban from football. There were initial suggestions that Newcastle could dock Tonali’s wages during his suspension, but it is now believed that this will not be the case. The possibility of legal action against AC Milan, Tonali’s former club, is also diminishing.
Newcastle’s pursuit of a replacement for Tonali highlights the club’s determination to maintain a competitive squad despite the challenges they have faced this season. Injuries to key players, including Jacob Murphy, have put a strain on the team’s resources. The January transfer window presents an opportunity for Newcastle to bolster their midfield and ensure they remain competitive in the Premier League.
As the situation unfolds, it will be interesting to see which player Newcastle ultimately signs as Tonali’s replacement. The club’s ownership and relationship with Al-Hilal adds an intriguing dimension to the potential deal. Fans will be eagerly awaiting updates on Newcastle’s transfer activities and hoping for a successful January window that strengthens the team for the remainder of the season.
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