Sandro Tonali Dreams Of Serie A Return Amid Struggles In Premier League

Sandro Tonali is pushing for a move back to Serie A as the Italian remains disappointed with Newcastle United’s performance this season.

Sandro Tonali Pushes For Serie A Move

The Italian international is ready to bring his time in the Premier League to an end in 2026, as Newcastle continue to struggle under Eddie Howe.

Tonali was substituted after 59 minutes during the Magpies’ derby day defeat by Sunderland on December 14th and the Azzurri star failed to make a real impact after returning from injury.

Prior to this knock, the 25-year-old had been one of Newcastle’s most consistent players this season and was widely-regarded as one of the best midfielders in England.

However after the crushing defeat to their fierce rivals, Tonali is questioning his future in Tyneside as Newcastle sit 12th in the Premier League and take up that same spot in the Champions League.

This poor display has frustrated Tonali and the Italian midfielder is now considering a move back to Serie A, becoming the latest Azzurri star to push for a return.

Tottenham shot-stopper Guglielmo Vicario is also seeking a return to Italy after a turbulent spell in North London and Inter Milan have been urged to sign the 29-year-old.

Both Vicario and Tonali left Italy for a move to England in the 2023 summer window, with the Spurs star winning the Europa League and the Magpies midfielder lifting the Carabao Cup.

Moving back to Serie A has been an ever-present murmur during Tonali’s time in England after a roller coaster spell with Newcastle and a return could also have an impact on the 25-year-old’s international future.

Gennaro Gattuso Considering Tonali Captaincy

Tonali has picked-up 30 caps for the Italian national side and has been involved in every camp under Gennaro Gattuso.

The Newcastle midfielder is expected to play a huge role in Italy’s World Cup playoff semi final clash against Northern Ireland on March 26th, as he looks to make his first appearance at the iconic tournament.

His performances for the Azzurri have clearly impressed Gattuso and the Italy boss is reportedly willing to hand Tonali the captain’s armband for the World Cup.

Gianluigi Donnarumma is currently the Azzurri skipper, but Gattuso is considering the idea of handing the responsibility to an outfield player.

Moving back to Italy could be a catalyst for this decision as the Azzurri star would be reunited with a lot of his international teammates and closer to his international manager.

AC Milan have been heavily linked with a move for their former star, as the Rossoneri look to build on their strong start to the season – despite a disappointing stalemate with Sassuolo on December 14th.

Christian Pulisic saw his goal be ruled-out after an alleged foul by Ruben Loftus-Cheek in the build-up, however, this has now been deemed a mistake by Serie A referee chiefs.

The Rossoneri will need to make a substantial offer for Tonali as his deal in England does not expire until June 2028 and the Magpies are looking to receive €75million.