Manchester City are once again preparing for a big summer in the transfer market, and one name that is starting to create serious noise behind the scenes is Sandro Tonali. The Newcastle United midfielder has quietly become one of the most respected and admired players in the Premier League since his arrival from AC Milan, and now sources suggest that Pep Guardiola and Manchester City are carefully watching his situation. What started as small rumours has now grown into something much bigger, with confirmed talks involving Tonali’s camp and interest from several top clubs across England and Europe.
Tonali arrived at Newcastle in 2023 with huge expectations on his shoulders. Leaving AC Milan was not an easy decision. He was loved in Italy, seen as a symbol of the club’s identity, and many fans believed he would stay there for most of his career. But Newcastle’s ambition, project, and financial strength convinced him to take a bold step into the Premier League. From the moment he arrived at St James’ Park, it was clear he was not just another signing. He brought calm, intelligence, and leadership into the midfield, even at a young age.
Over the last few seasons, Tonali has grown into one of Eddie Howe’s most trusted players. He has played a huge number of games, rarely hides during difficult moments, and always shows discipline and tactical awareness. Last season alone, he featured 45 times as Newcastle finished fifth in the league, narrowly missing out on Champions League qualification. This season, despite ups and downs for the team, Tonali has still managed to contribute with important assists and solid performances across competitions.
Yet football moves quickly, and situations change. Despite being a key part of Newcastle’s plans, Tonali’s future is no longer completely secure. Sources close to the situation say there has been constant speculation around him for months. Some of it is linked to homesickness, some to interest from Italy, and some to growing attention from elite Premier League clubs who believe he is ready to take the next step.
Chelsea were one of the first clubs linked with Tonali. They were seriously considering strengthening their midfield and saw the Italian as someone who could bring balance and control. However, Chelsea chose to focus on other areas during the winter transfer window, and that particular move did not progress. Arsenal then emerged as another strong contender. On Deadline Day, there was genuine interest, and talks were held with Tonali’s representatives. But Newcastle made their position very clear. They had no intention of selling such an important player so late in the window.
Even so, those talks sent a clear message. Tonali is being watched. He is admired. And clubs believe there may be an opportunity in the summer if the right conditions are met.
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That is where Manchester City come in.
Pep Guardiola is known for his deep appreciation of intelligent midfielders. He values players who understand space, timing, and positioning more than physical power or raw speed. Tonali fits that profile almost perfectly. He can sit deep, protect the defence, recycle possession, and still move forward when needed. He reads the game calmly and rarely panics under pressure. These are qualities Guardiola values highly.
After Newcastle’s recent Carabao Cup defeat to Manchester City, Guardiola was seen in a long and intense conversation with Tonali. To outsiders, it looked like a friendly chat. To those who understand football politics, it raised eyebrows. Guardiola does not speak at length with players unless he truly admires them. That moment alone was enough to spark fresh rumours, and sources now say City are ready to formally register their interest if Tonali is open to leaving St James’ Park.
Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, it was explained that the speculation around Tonali is far from over. In fact, Deadline Day may have only been the beginning. There have been repeated rumours of a return to Italy, with AC Milan and Juventus both mentioned. There has also been talk about how difficult life in England can be for some Italian players, especially when expectations are high and pressure never stops.
Despite those rumours, Tonali started the season strongly. His performances showed maturity and consistency. In recent weeks, he may have dipped slightly, but that is normal in a long and demanding Premier League campaign. Importantly, he remains a key figure in Eddie Howe’s system. Howe sees him as someone to build around, not someone to sell. Losing Tonali would be a massive blow to Newcastle’s long-term project.
But football is not always about what managers want. It is also about timing, ambition, and opportunity.
Manchester City’s interest in Tonali becomes even more serious when you consider the situation surrounding Rodri. For several years, Rodri has been the heartbeat of City’s midfield. He has been one of the best defensive midfielders in the world, controlling games, breaking up attacks, and dictating tempo. However, recent seasons have brought injury concerns. This campaign, he has struggled with a hamstring problem and has only managed eight Premier League starts.
City are very aware of this issue. Sources have revealed that the club are already planning for the future and are looking to sign a long-term replacement or successor to Rodri. Guardiola does not like being caught unprepared. He prefers to refresh his squad before problems become crises.
To complicate matters further, Real Madrid are reportedly keen on signing Rodri. With his contract running until 2027, City may soon face a decision. Cashing in early could make sense, especially if concerns over his injury record continue. And if Rodri does leave, City will need someone who can step into that demanding role almost immediately.
This is where Tonali becomes a perfect option.
In many ways, Tonali would be a like-for-like replacement. He has the discipline to sit deep, the intelligence to read danger, and the technical quality to play under pressure. At 25, he is entering his prime. He has already experienced top-level football in Italy and England. He understands different tactical systems and is still young enough to improve under Guardiola’s guidance.
From City’s perspective, the move makes a lot of sense. From Tonali’s perspective, it is also tempting. Working under Guardiola is a dream for many midfielders. City compete for every trophy every season. The chance to fight for the Champions League, Premier League titles, and individual honours is always present.
Newcastle, however, are not a selling club by choice. They want to grow, to challenge the elite, and to build a squad capable of sustained success. Eddie Howe would hate to lose Tonali. Fans would be devastated. He represents ambition, class, and progress. But if the player pushes for a move, and if the right offer arrives, Newcastle may be forced into difficult conversations.
There is also the wider Premier League context to consider. Arsenal remain interested. Chelsea could return. Italian clubs may re-enter the race. But Manchester City’s interest carries special weight. Their track record, their manager, and their success make them one of the most attractive destinations in world football.
For now, Tonali remains a Newcastle player. He continues to train, play, and commit himself to the club. Nothing has been decided. But behind the scenes, plans are forming. Talks have happened. Interest has been confirmed. And as the summer window approaches, this story is only going to grow louder.
One thing is certain. If Sandro Tonali becomes available, Manchester City will be ready. And if Rodri’s future continues to look uncertain, the path to the Etihad could open faster than anyone expects. In modern football, situations change quickly. Today’s key player can become tomorrow’s headline transfer. And Tonali’s name is one that will not disappear from the headlines any time soon.
