Newcastle United

Newcastle United's Sandro Tonali set for 10-month ban?

By Ben Sully | 25 October 2023

Newcastle's Sandro Tonali set for 10-month ban?

Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali is reportedly set to receive a 10-month ban after admitting to making bets during his time with AC Milan.

Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali is reportedly set to be banned for 10 months due to illegal betting activity.

Tonali was forced to withdraw from the Italy squad earlier this month after being named in an Italian betting investigation.

The 23-year-old is understood to have admitted to betting on football matches during his time at Serie A giants AC Milan, including games where his side were involved.

Newcastle released a statement last week to confirm the investigation and offer support to Tonali and his family after the player's agent revealed his client had a gambling addiction.

Juventus midfielder Nicolo Fagioli, who has also been the subject of the same betting probe, has already agreed a plea bargain and received a seven-month ban from football.

Newcastle United's Sandro Tonali on August 5, 2023 © Reuters

According to Sky Sports News, Tonali's legal team are currently in negotiations with Italian authorities over a 10-month ban.

Tonali has been cooperative in the investigation, and like Fagioli, his legal representatives are discussing a plea bargain.

Without assisting the authorities, the Italy international would have been at risk of receiving a three-year suspension.

Nevertheless, a 10-month ban would rule Tonali out for the remainder of the season and next summer's European championships.

Italy's Sandro Tonali pictured during training September 4, 2023 © Reuters

Since the news broke about the Italian betting probe, the midfielder has featured for Eddie Howe's side on two occasions.

Tonali appeared as a substitute in Saturday's 4-0 win over Crystal Palace and Wednesday's Champions League defeat to Borussia Dortmund.

There is a possibility that Tonali has played his final game of the season, with a suspension likely to be handed out before Saturday's clash with Wolverhampton Wanderers.

With Tonali expected to be out for a significant period, Newcastle are believed to be targeting a new midfielder for the January transfer window.