The former Milan midfielder has once again hinted at a possible return to Italy: who has considered it and who already has the dossier in hand

The black and white clearly suits him. Having left his beloved Rossoneri colors of Milan, Sandro Tonali has found himself at ease in Newcastle. That’s why wearing the Juve shirt shouldn’t embarrass him. Shirts aside, the future of the Italian midfielder is increasingly on everyone’s lips. Sandro adds to the speculation, given that when asked about a possible return to Italy, he always hints at it, implicitly confirming the rumors that have been chasing him for months.

Newcastle, rich and ambitious, has given him a unique showcase over the last two years and has also stood by him during the difficult days of his suspension. In short, as he himself admits, he is happy where he is. Up to a point. It is clear that he misses the places he loves in Italy and the desire to breathe a more familiar air. In particular, it is striking how, in his interview at Coverciano, he goes out on a limb to say that “Serie A is increasingly beautiful.” This is a counter-trend concept, considering that the Premier League is indisputably the most important league in the world. Evidently, however, in Tonali’s mind, the idea of spending his mature football years in Italy is an option to be taken seriously. The message applies in particular to Juventus. Meanwhile, Milan has taken a different path, and there is no sense that the club’s management is considering significant investments in midfield, especially after Allegri’s reshuffle. Napoli also considered the idea last summer but never pursued it further. Inter, meanwhile, has already planned other moves in midfield, with Barella successfully experimenting with playmaking duties in place of Çalhanoğlu and Sučić brilliantly fitting into the role.

Juve and possible costs—  In Turin, however, the numbers don’t add up. There is a lack of a reference point in midfield. So much so that in recent months, the Bianconeri had already taken a peek at the Tonali dossier. It was a timid attempt, considering the high costs of the operation. And above all because of the wall erected by Newcastle’s Saudi owners, who are determined to defend their most promising talents. At this point in the season, it is difficult to believe that any immediate moves will be made. Even in January, it is unlikely that the English club will agree to part with the Lodi midfielder. Rather, it is logical to believe that the big moves will begin in the summer. Let’s try, then, to define the costs of the operation. Two summers ago, Newcastle spent around €60 million (plus bonuses and FIFA fees), while the player was given a contract until 2028 worth €8 million net per season. In the meantime, his value has grown and, virtually, at 26, his price tag should be even higher. In this case, however, Tonali’s wishes carry weight, as he will find himself in a favorable position in 2026. Two years before his contract with the English club expires, it will be up to him to accept or reject an extension. If he does not, the purchasing club could find room for a concrete assault. Is Juve ready for this move? Tudor’s team’s start to the season has confirmed the already known limitations in midfield. The need to secure a top-level player seems clear to everyone. We just have to wait and see what the real room for maneuver is. Beyond the technical aspect, Tonali’s return to Italy would be an enrichment for the entire league. And then Juve would have the opportunity to expand its limited roster of Italian players. In the Bianconeri tradition, national team players have always had a special place. An identity lost along the way, opening the door to nostalgia. The same nostalgia that Sandro feels for our league. Destiny seems to unite them.