Sky: Tonali quietens talk of Serie A return with Newcastle contract extension

Sandro Tonali and Newcastle United have sent a message regarding the future by extending his contract, a report claims.

According to Sky Sports in the UK, Tonali’s contract has been extended until 2029, with Newcastle also having the option of an additional year. When he signed from Milan the initial deal ran until 2028, so it shifts the deadline back by at least a year.

The journalist Keith Downie also reports that the Italian midfielder agreed the deal in secret during his ban for illegal betting, to protect Newcastle financially with them having not been able to use him for 10 months.

The 25-year-old now has three-and-a-half years left on his deal, with the option of one more. Downie stated: “Good news for Newcastle fans who were worried the club could be forced to sell Tonali next summer.”

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The Milan speculation

Ever since he left Milan in the 2023 summer window, there has been talk that he may wish to return one day. Matteo Moretto’s recent comments regarding Tonali’s fate and a possible future at Milan certainly sparked a bit of intrigue.

“Tonali’s comments have fuelled the imagination of many fans, especially in Italy and especially at AC Milan: he’s always left the door open to his return to the Rossoneri. I want to tell you the most likely scenario right now, considering it’s mid-October,” he said.

“At the moment, it’s practically impossible to imagine Tonali leaving Newcastle in January; we’ll discuss it again in June: the interested clubs will have to work on it for next year.

There are obvious financial hurdles to be overcome if Milan were to bring Tonali back, even down the line given he will be in his prime years. Juventus have always been linked, but for now he is staying put.