The biggest blot on Dan Ashworth’s copybook at Newcastle United is the Sandro Tonali deal.
His £55million arrival from AC Milan is the second biggest transfer that Dan Ashworth oversaw, and the second biggest in Newcastle United’s history.
Sandro Tonali was viewed as a statement signing, with the Magpies snatching a Champions League rival’s most important player.
The 23-year-old was quickly idolised by Toon fans, but then it turned into a nightmare.
In October, Tonali was investigated for betting by the Italian Football Federation. That resulted in a 10-month ban, with the midfielder now unable to play until August.
His move from AC Milan to Newcastle immediately came under scrutiny, with questions asked as to how the Magpies were unaware of Tonali’s situation.
The club were always adamant that they could not have known, and that stance has not changed.
Newcastle have not changed their stance on the Sandro Tonali transfer
According to the Athletic, Newcastle insiders are still of the belief that they could not have known about Tonali’s gambling problem before signing him.
It has cost him almost a full season of his career, while it has had a majorly negative impact on Newcastle’s campaign. They are going to be without their marquee summer signing until the beginning of next season, in an area of the pitch where they have also struggled with injuries.
That has cast more of a spotlight on Ashworth bringing in Tonali, and some have used it as a stick to beat him with.
But it was an unavoidable situation, despite it being such a detriment to Eddie Howe and his team.
Instead, they will have to continue without Tonali, much to Howe’s frustration. But he will be ready to go in August, and no doubt eager to make up for lost time in a black and white shirt.
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