Newcastle United has initiated the process of identifying potential January replacements for Sandro Tonali, who has been banned for 10 months due to illegal betting-related activities. This suspension will keep the 23-year-old out for the remainder of the 2023-24 season.
As a result, despite their £55 million investment in Tonali over the summer, Newcastle United is now tasked with finding a suitable replacement for the suspended Italian. While various names are circulating in connection with a move to St. James’ Park, one player who is at the forefront of Eddie Howe’s preferences is Manchester City’s Kalvin Phillips.
Phillips, who has struggled to secure regular playing time at the Etihad, has expressed a strong desire for more minutes in his quest to be part of Gareth Southgate’s England squad for the upcoming European Championship. This ambition could prompt a mid-season transfer, and a move to Newcastle United, likely on loan due to financial fair play regulations, would be an ideal solution for almost all parties involved.
According to a recent report from the Telegraph, although Manchester City is open to letting go of the English international, they may not approve a loan deal when other clubs could potentially make a permanent transfer offer. However, the encouraging news for Newcastle fans is that Phillips himself is believed to be enthusiastic about making the move happen.
Ultimately, the club will make the final decision, but given Phillips’ strong desire to play, Pep Guardiola may feel a moral obligation to honor his midfielder’s wishes.