Barcelona search for midfield reinforcements has hit a hiccup, with one of their best targets indicating that he is set on staying in the Premier League.
The Spanish giants have been left in limbo regarding Frenkie De Jong.
They had used a technically gifted Newcastle United star as a potential replacement, but now they look set to fail with their pursuit before it has properly begun.
The 23-year-old midfielder has been important for Eddie Howe’s side since arriving last summer, and helped end the Magpies’ winning the Carabao Cup.
Although the player’s season has been tarnished after he was handed a ten-month suspension for breaching gambling regulations, he has established himself as a fan favorite at St. James’ Park, with his blend of defensive steel and creative vision so important for them.
According to The Telegraph, Sandro Tonali has told Newcastle’s hierarchy in private he wants to stay and repay the club for the faith they showed in him during his ban.
As Newcastle’s manager, Eddie Howe developed Tonali into one of the most complete midfield operators in the Premier League; his tempo and ability to break up play mean he may be irreplaceable in Howe’s current squad.
By opting for Newcastle, Tonali sends a strong message to the Newcastle club; they can keep top talents even when teams at the top of Europe are after them.
Meanwhile, Barcelona can only go back to the drawing board to find midfield support.
While the Magpies know they can build the future around someone who will be very determined to put behind a lost season, and fire them back up into European contention.
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