Sandro Tonali signed secret Newcastle United contract extension during betting ban

View Image

Newcastle United star Sandro Tonali signed a secret contract extension last year during his betting ban - but is in line for another new deal at St James's Park.

Italy midfielder Tonali has been excellent for the Magpies in the early part of the season and there are scheduled discussions with Tonali's representatives and new sporting director Ross Wilson. And Toon chiefs are relaxed about the talks about his long-term future after his current deal was secretly extended last year.

As first reported by the Daily Mail, Tonali's deal - which had been due to expire in 2028 - was extended until 2029, with the option of another year until 2030. He inked the deal as the Premier League side - who thrashed Benfica in the Champions League on Tuesday night - stood by the £55m former AC Milan midfielder during his betting ban.

Tonali has been linked with a return to his homeland in recent windows, with both Juventus and Milan. But neither can afford what Newcastle want for the player, who is also happy on Tyneside.

Speaking on the prospect of a return to Italy, Tonali said earlier this month: "You can never know what will happen, I tell everyone it's possible.

"I'm not closing the door on Italy; it's my country. Maybe not now because I've found my balance at Newcastle, but the league is getting better and better, the level of the teams is rising."

Tonali has flourished under Eddie Howe, part of the Magpies strong midfield core, dovetailing in the engine room with captain Bruno Guimaraes and Brazilian powerhouse Joelinton .

Sky has slashed the price of its Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle ahead of the 2025/26 season, saving members £192 and offering more than 1,400 live matches across the Premier League, EFL and more.

So good has Tonali been since returning from his betting ban, that Paul Scholes recently hailed his displays, insisting he might well be the best Premier League midfielder right now. Scholes said: "I love Tonali at Newcastle. Oh, he can run. He's been brilliant. Very good.

"I think Declan Rice can score goals, I just don't think he does it enough. I prefer Tonali."

Toon boss Howe has also made clear his belief that Tonali is an integral part of his side as they look to build on last season's Carabao Cup triumph and top five finish.

Howe said: "Technically, he is an outstanding player. To see that technical ability we want him to get the ball more. Playing as a No. 8 we need more of a goal threat too."