Newcastle Set Sights on Nicolò Barella as Sandro Tonali Replacement

Newcastle United are stepping up their interest in Nicolò Barella as a marquee replacement for Sandro Tonali, with the Inter Milan star emerging as a leading target if a big-money summer exit materialises, SportsBoom can exclusively reveal.

And our sources also understand that Crystal Palace are also monitoring the playmaker with Jean-Phillipe Mateta expected to leave the Eagles after a move to Inter’s rivals AC Milan collapsed in January.

The Magpies are braced for strong interest in Tonali when the transfer window reopens, and sources say contingency plans are already in motion at St James’ Park, with Barella right at the top of the wish list.

Palace are also keen on Barella, especially after a string of high-profile departures and Mateta seemingly on the brink of joining Eberechi Eze and Marc Guehi in the alarming exodus, which also includes boss Oliver Glasner at the end of the season.

PLAUDITS

The Inter Milan ace has been hoovering up plaudits in Serie A, widely hailed as one of Europe’s most complete midfielders. 

Effortlessly classy, he blends flair with relentless dynamism and, at 29, is firmly in his prime.

Barella has amassed 325 appearances for Inter across seven seasons, chipping in with 26 goals and a stack of assists while playing a pivotal role in their domestic resurgence, one which saw the win the Serie A title two seasons ago.

Prior to that, he made his name at Cagliari, earning a big-money move to the San Siro that has since looked a bargain.

On the international stage, Barella has been capped 68 times by Italy, playing a key role in their famous UEFA Euro 2020 triumph and also being a key player in their quest to try and qualify for this summer’s World Cup.

ADMIRER

Four-time World Cup winners Italy face Northern Ireland in a play-off semi-final showdown on 26 March, followed by a clash with Wales or Bosnia-Herzegovina if they triumph.

Newcastle boss Eddie Howe is a known admirer, viewing Barella as the perfect high-energy operator to slot into his system should Tonali depart. While no formal bid has yet been lodged, insiders claim the club are closely monitoring developments and could test Inter’s resolve with a blockbuster offer of around £40million.

Barella remains central to Inter’s plans, but Newcastle’s financial firepower means few players are out of reach, particularly if they are forced into action by Tonali’s exit and likely big fee for his sale.