£42m league winner is keen to move to Newcastle United in January

Add as preferred source on Google

Newcastle United now have official confirmation that they will need to find a replacement for Sandro Tonali.

The 23-year-old has been investigated by the Italian Football Federation for betting, and it was rumoured that he would receive a 10-month ban. That has proven to be the case, although Tonali will still be allowed to train with Newcastle during his suspension.

That is a bonus, but it is still a major blow to lose the midfielder for such a lengthy period of time. We will not see Tonali play in a competitive game for Newcastle until August 2024.

Eddie Howe‘s midfield is now a player light for the foreseeable future, which means that the Toon owners may have to bring in a replacement.

Luckily, the January transfer window opens in just over two months, and one of the Magpies’ targets is reportedly keen on a move to St James’ Park.

Newcastle interested in Kalvin Phillips from Manchester City

In recent weeks, Newcastle have been linked with making a move for Kalvin Phillips.

The 27-year-old is out of favour at Manchester City, and looks set for a move away from the Etihad Stadium having struggled for minutes under Pep Guardiola.

When the rumour first surfaced, it did not feel like a move for Phillips would be worthwhile for Newcastle. However, things have changed following the confirmation of Tonali’s ban.

The £42million Premier League winner would be an adequate replacement, and is someone who the club should look to sign at the beginning of 2024.

Phillips keen on Newcastle move

And, according to the Telegraph, Phillips would be interested in joining Eddie Howe’s side in January.

They report that the England international would like to sign for Newcastle if he is going to leave Man City at the start of next year.

A loan deal would likely appeal to the Magpies, but it remains unclear whether Man City would be willing to do business with Newcastle. Wages could also be an issue.

But the fact that Phillips would be keen on a switch to St James’ Park is encouraging, and does offer hope that an agreement can potentially be reached in January.