Sandro Tonali to Arsenal is a transfer rumour that isn’t going away anytime soon and he could well end up forcing the Gunners’ hand himself.
Tonali was linked with a move to Arsenal as the window closed in January but Newcastle were in no mood to entertain any offers.
However, Tonali’s name continues to be linked with the Gunners and according to journalist Ben Jacobs, there’s a situation where this deal becomes serious.
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Arsenal will go for Sandro Tonali if he makes it clear he’s leaving Newcastle
Everyone knows that Newcastle won’t be selling Tonali for anything less than the £100m mark.
However, according to respected journalist Ben Jacobs, Tonali himself could open the door for a move to Arsenal if he makes a few things clear.
“Manchester United have discussed Tonali as well. You’ve got Man City and Arsenal. So to your point about how City always replicate Manchester United, there’s a bit of overlap there, but I think it’s really Arsenal,” Jacobs revealed on The United Stand podcast.
“And my feeling is that this is a deal that Arsenal would be prepared to advance and explore quite seriously if Tonali opens the door and says, “I want to leave Newcastle and I’m prepared to stay in England.”
Why Sandro Tonali is not the answer for Arsenal
Look, Sandro Tonali is a top midfield player and in terms of ability, there is plenty to admire about the Italian.
However, Arsenal need to take into account the entire package and if I was Mikel Arteta, I’d be looking elsewhere.
There are a few factors at large here, with one being Tonali’s agent clearly being one of those vocal types who isn’t afraid to do what’s needed for his client. That itself is a red flag and the last thing Arsenal need is outside distractions.
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Furthermore, if Tonali does push to leave, what does that say about his character? Let’s not forget, Newcastle stood by him through a tumultuous time and now suddenly he wants out at the first chance?
Finally, there’s the fact Arsenal have depth in midfield anyway. He’s not replacing Rice or Zubimendi, while Odegaard and Eze might have something to say about it as well. And that’s without Tonali stunting the development of the likes of Dowman and Nwaneri.
At £100m plus, this deal just doesn’t make sense for Arsenal.
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