Arsenal Transfer Blow? Real Madrid Enter Race for Mikel Arteta’s Midfield Target

Real Madrid have reportedly joined the chase for Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali, with scouts from the Spanish giants in attendance during the Magpies' FA Cup match against Manchester City on Saturday.

While the primary mission for the Madrid delegation was to analyse their upcoming Champions League opponents, it is understood they were also closely monitoring the 25-year-old Italian international.

This development places them alongside Premier League rivals Arsenal, Manchester City in what could become a major summer transfer battle for the player, who is valued at around £100 million.

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Newcastle remain firm in their desire to keep their star players, having already sold Alexander Isak to Liverpool for a British record £130 million last year. However, the club may face a difficult situation if they fail to secure European football for next season.

Sources indicate that Tonali has not expressed a desire to leave St James' Park. His family is reportedly settled in the North East, especially after the birth of his son in January, and they are not actively seeking a move.

The player's agent, Giuseppe Riso, previously downplayed rumours of a transfer but also suggested his client's true market value would become clearer in March, potentially hinting at an increased asking price.

Tonali is under a long-term contract with Newcastle until 2030, earning a reported £150,000 per week. The club stood by him during his ten-month ban for betting offences, which began shortly after his £55 million transfer from AC Milan in 2023, and he is said to have a strong relationship with manager Eddie Howe.

Despite this, the allure of joining Real Madrid as a 'Galactico' could prove tempting for the former Milan star. If a substantial offer is made and Tonali shows interest, Newcastle may be reluctant to engage in a prolonged transfer saga similar to the one involving Isak.

When previously asked about his long-term commitment in November, Tonali acknowledged the unpredictable nature of a football career.

"This is a tough question because, you know, in football you need to think year for year," he said. "If you have an option for your life, for another team, you need to think about everything. I don’t want to say, ‘Yes, I want to stay here ten years,’ but now I’m happy here. I don’t think anything about another team."

Following Newcastle's 3-1 FA Cup defeat, where Harvey Barnes' opener was overturned by goals from Savinho and a brace from Omar Marmoush, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola was seen in conversation with Tonali on the pitch.

This was not the first time the two have been spotted talking, having also had a discussion after City's 5-1 aggregate victory over Newcastle in the Carabao Cup semi-final last month.