Salernitana issued a brief statement confirming Sandro Tonali’s participation in an investigation into illicit betting activities in Italy. But with a year-long ban looming, there are still far more questions than answers regarding the former AC Milan player.
Tonali’s case has been the subject of conflicting reports that have suggested both guilt and innocence. As things stand, the midfield player may still be able to play against Crystal Palace on Saturday. As things are, it would be incorrect to make any assumptions about the summer signing, but it doesn’t stop Newcastle from exploring all of their options.
Tonali was the star player to arrive at St. James’ Park in the most recent transfer window, fulfilling Eddie Howe’s every desire to bring in a world-class midfield player. However, the 23-year-old may be spending some time on the sidelines with fellow summer signing Harvey Barnes in a matter of weeks.
The head coach still has plenty of options when it comes to midfield, and a prospective absence for Tonali would provide further opportunities to academy graduates Elliot Anderson and Lewis Miley, or even loanee Lewis Hall. However, it is surely no coincidence that a recent report suggests United is prepared to make a ‘quick’ mid-season move for a target who would bolster depth in this area.
Kalvin Phillips has reportedly been on the Magpies’ radar for some time now, likely even before the midfielder made his move to Manchester City. The former Leeds United favorite had emerged as a surprise star during England’s run to the Euro 2020 final, but things have not gone to plan since for the 27-year-old.
Phillips’s first season at the Etihad was hindered by injuries, but Rodri’s consistent play for the treble champions makes him Pep Guardiola’s first option for the center of his midfield. The England international’s continued exclusion during Rodri’s recent suspension, however, suggests that he is further lower on City’s hierarchy than many initially believed.
Some have made fun of Phillips, the midfield player, because Gareth Southgate has chosen to keep him in the starting lineup despite his severe lack of playing time. While there is merit to the argument over England’s selection strategy, it is premature to discount a player who contributed fully to an international competition that drew eerily close to bringing home the hardware.
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