Arsenal’s ambitions to bolster their midfield could be dramatically thwarted by Manchester City, who are plotting a stunning £180m double raid on Newcastle United. The Etihad outfit is reportedly eyeing a blockbuster move for Italian star Sandro Tonali and promising full-back Tino Livramento, potentially derailing the Gunners’ firm interest in the former AC Milan man.
The Gunners have maintained a strong interest in signing Tonali, with reports indicating they are monitoring his situation closely ahead of a possible summer transfer. German journalist Florian Plettenberg initially sparked speculation on deadline day by claiming Arsenal were ‘exploring’ a move after initiating dialogue with Newcastle. Although this was quickly dismissed by Newcastle correspondent Lee Ryder, who stated there was ‘no contact whatsoever,’ further insights reveal a different story.
Tonali’s agent, Giuseppe Riso, has denied initiating any contact with Arsenal. However, confirmed sources indicate there was brief and informal communication between the two parties regarding a potential transfer. An update from The Sun suggests Arsenal are ‘already plotting a blockbuster potential swoop worth £100million’ (€116m / $137m) for the 25-year-old midfielder. Mikel Arteta is said to be a ‘huge admirer’ of Tonali and envisions pairing him with Declan Rice to form a formidable midfield partnership.
However, Arsenal face stiff competition. Manchester City have emerged as serious contenders, with Pep Guardiola also being a ‘big fan’ of Tonali. To compound Newcastle’s concerns, Guardiola is reportedly considering a ‘potential double raid’ that includes Livramento alongside Tonali. Sources confirmed in November that City are tracking Livramento, whom Newcastle value at upwards of £80m (€93m / $109m). This combined swoop could total a staggering £180m, leaving Arsenal stunned and outmaneuvered.
Chelsea are also in the mix for Tonali, adding further intrigue to the transfer saga. Liverpool have been linked with the Italian as well, while Juventus remain dark horses, especially given Tonali and his family’s reported desire to return to Italy, where the Old Lady are his strongest suitors.
Unlike Alexander Isak, who forced a move to Liverpool last summer, Tonali is expected to handle any potential departure respectfully. He is keen on joining a club vying for Champions League spots and domestic trophies but will not resort to striking to force Newcastle’s hand.
In related developments, Arsenal have been informed that a €100m (£87m / $118m) bid could secure a world-class centre-forward, though they might negotiate a lower fee by including players like Gabriel Martinelli or Gabriel Jesus in the deal.
Meanwhile, both Manchester City and Manchester United have received encouraging news about a classy midfielder who is ‘bound for Manchester’ this summer, potentially setting the stage for more cross-city rivalry in the transfer market