Nicolo Fagioli could replace Sandro Tonali at Newcastle - Report

Sandro Tonali is close to finalising his £100 million move from Newcastle United to Tottenham Hotspur.

Whatever you think about the Italian, there's no doubt that his departure leaves a big hole in Eddie Howe's squad that needs filling ASAP.

On his day, there were few better in the middle of the park than Tonali, but it's fair to say that those days were becoming far too infrequent as his Newcastle career went on, and it was probably the best move to cash in while we could.

However, how do we replace that engine? Johan Manzambi is being heavily linked with a switch to Newcastle. The 20-year-old has caught the eye at the World Cup, and after his latest assist for Switzerland against Algeria last night, there are fears that Newcastle's move could be hijacked.

Newcastle would certainly be wise to ensure there's a list of other potential targets behind Manzambi, just in case. A report from Italy has given us a familiar name as a potential target.

Newcastle could look towards Nicolo Fagioli

According to Italian outlet Quotidiano Sportivo, Newcastle could look at Fiorentina's Nicolo Fagioli to replace Tonali. The 25-year-old was named alongside Tonali in the infamous betting scandal that saw Tonali banned for 10 months.

Fiorentina signed Fagioli from Juventus in 2025 and doesn't want to sell the midfielder this summer, but an offer of €40m (£34m) could change that, according to Sport Witness.

Alongside Fagiolo, Davide Frattesi's name has also resurfaced in reports in Italy.  Frettesi was linked plenty of times last year, but no move was ever made.

But... Manzambi though

By now, you likely know of our scepticism when it comes to transfer reports originating in Italy, but Newcastle are in the market, and Italy does have a habit of producing good midfield talent.

Like so many fans, we've got all of our extremities crossed for some positive movement on Johan Manzambi, but getting excited over a player at this stage has bitten us too many times in the past, so we're trying to remain detached ... oh but he looks SO GOOD!!!

We could see Fagioli being a target. He may be at the top end of the profile we're looking for in terms of age, but an Italy international for under £40 million isn't a bad deal if we can do it.

Rumour Rating: 4/10 - Sourced in Italy. Aged 25. We're not confident yet, but we can see the merit.