Arsenal have received a significant boost in their efforts to sign Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali ahead of rivals Tottenham Hotspur this summer.
The 26-year-old Italian has established himself as one of the Premier League’s finest midfielders since joining Newcastle from AC Milan at St James’ Park.
Tonali played a key role in helping Newcastle end their seven-decade trophy drought, contributing to the club’s Carabao Cup triumph last year.
Despite having a contract with Newcastle running until 2029, the midfielder is reportedly keen on departing this summer to pursue the next stage of his career.
Both Arsenal and Tottenham have identified Tonali as a priority transfer target, setting the stage for a fierce battle between the two north London rivals.
According to a report via Givemesport, Tonali would prefer a move to Arsenal over Tottenham if both clubs were to agree a deal in principle with Newcastle.
Tottenham boss Roberto De Zerbi has held positive talks with the player, yet Tonali’s preference reportedly lies with the Gunners rather than their local rivals.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has reported that De Zerbi’s side remain confident of winning the race and signing Tonali ahead of Arsenal this window.
Newcastle have placed a £100m price tag on the midfielder, making clear they have no intention of allowing him to leave on the cheap.
Tonali is comfortable operating in both box-to-box and deep-lying playmaker roles, offering technical quality, long-range passing ability, and strong defensive contributions throughout a match.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta currently has Christian Norgaard, Martin Zubimendi, Declan Rice, and Mikel Merino available as midfield options, though Norgaard struggled to find regular game time last season.
Tottenham, meanwhile, are planning a significant squad overhaul this summer after enduring a difficult campaign, making Tonali a central piece of their reported rebuilding ambitions.
Adding a Premier League-proven player of Tonali’s calibre would represent a major coup for whichever club ultimately wins this transfer battle.