Chelsea are planning a bold attempt to sign Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali

Chelsea are making a bold move for the transfer of Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali. Football insider.

After joining the Magpies in 2023, the former AC Milan midfielder was handed a 10-month ban. Yet he has been impeccable in the middle of the park for Eddie Howe’s side since his return in August 2024, playing a key role in the Magpies’ historic Carabao Cup triumph.

This season, the Italian midfielder has been an indispensable figure in the middle of the park. He played in all but one of Newcastle’s Premier League matches and provided four assists in 25 games in all competitions. His combative style, alongside that of Bruno Guimaraes, has won a lot of admiration, not only from pundits, but also from clubs who are now looking to sign him.

One of the clubs considering a move to Tonali is Chelsea Football insiderwho claims the London giants have a ‘vested interest’ in the 25-year-old and are now keeping a close eye on him ahead of a potential move.

Combative midfielder

Amid concerns over the ongoing injuries to Romeo Lavia and the form of Andrey Santos, the report adds that the Blues are exploring several midfielders to strengthen their squad next summer and have expressed an interest in the Italy international as a viable option given his Premier League experience.

However, according to the report, Newcastle are keen to keep Tonali at St James’ Park, so a bold bid beyond his £65million will likely be needed. Transfer market appreciation from Chelsea to change their position.

The Club World Cup champions already have a host of midfielders in their squad, including Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez, Andrey Santos, Romeo Lavia, Dario Essugo and Reggie Walsh, who became the club’s youngest European starter at 16 years and 200 days and is highly rated at Cobham.

However, they could benefit from more depth as injuries to Romeo Lavia and Dario Essugo have resulted in right-back Reece James playing in defensive midfield in several games.

Therefore, a move for Tonali makes sense as he has proven to be one of the best central midfielders in the league. The Italian is a tenacious, combative midfielder who is equally efficient on the ball and, at 25, would add much-needed experience to the Blues’ young squad.