Real Madrid, Man City 'watching' Newcastle United star ahead of potential summer swoop

Real Madrid and Manchester City are reportedly interested in signing Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali.

The 24-year-old has been linked with a move to Manchester United in the past, with the player supposedly favouring an exit from St James' Park.

That being said, Tonali's agent has recently spoken of his client's delight at being an "icon" in the North-East following his return from a gambling ban.

The Italian has featured in 21 Premier League matches for the Magpies this term - starting 14 of those - scoring once and providing one assist from the engine room.

Since making the high-profile switch from AC Milan to Eddie Howe's side during the summer of 2023, Tonali has played on 38 occasions, bagging four strikes.

Real Madrid, Man City to lure Tonali away from Newcastle?

According to Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, via 90min, Tonali could be waving goodbye to Newcastle after just two years in the North-East.

The report claims that the 24-year-old is attracting interest from a number of top clubs across Europe, including Real Madrid and Manchester City.

It is understood that the European champions are admirers of Tonali, although Los Blancos' move for the player will depend on whether Carlo Ancelotti or Xabi Alonso is the head coach next season.

As well as the Spanish giants, Pep Guardiola's Citizens are said to be watching the talent, who could secure a lucrative move to the blue side of Manchester.

With Tonali's current deal at St James' Park expiring over the summer of 2028, Newcastle are in a good position to drive a hard bargain for the midfielder.

Champions League temptations for Tonali

Since returning from his gambling ban, it is clear to see that Tonali has basked in the glory of being a hero at Newcastle, in front of a passionate home faithful.

However, a player of the Italian's ability will want to compete at the top level every season, a luxury that the Magpies are not currently in a position to offer.

Howe's troops sit fifth in the Premier League standings and level on points fourth-placed Man City, meaning that a spot in the Champions League next season is not guaranteed.

Certainly at Real Madrid - and to a lesser extent at the Etihad - Tonali would be likely assured of Champions League football every year.