After an inquiry by the Italian football authorities into illicit betting on football games, Tonali was suspended for ten months. The 23-year-old, who is battling an addiction to gambling, cooperated completely, allowing his attorneys to lower the sentence from the maximum three-year ban. Tonali won't be playing for his club or nation again until August, when the Premier League resumes. To keep his fitness levels up, he will still be allowed to train and participate in friendly matches that take place behind closed doors.
Numerous players have been mentioned as potential replacements for the £52 million signing, which Newcastle is in severe need of. Although there are still rumours about Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay, The Sun reports that the Magpies are thinking about making a bid for former Wolves captain Ruben Neves. The Portugal international just signed a £47 million deal to join Saudi side Al Hilal in the summer, leaving the Premier League.