Nacho Monreal Warns Arsenal’s Arteta Against £80M Sandro Tonali Signing From Newcastle United

Former Arsenal left-back Nacho Monreal has publicly advised his former club to reconsider reported transfer interest in Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali, arguing that the Italian’s potential arrival would create an unmanageable situation in central midfield at the Emirates.

According to reports, Newcastle United could demand in excess of £80 million for the 26-year-old, who remains contracted to the Magpies until at least 2029. Tonali has impressed since his move to St. James’ Park and is widely regarded as one of the most complete midfielders in European football.

Speaking in an interview with Rekatochklart, Monreal acknowledged Tonali’s quality but highlighted the structural dilemma such a signing would create for Arteta’s squad. “If Arsenal buys Tonali, they will get the best midfielder in the world,” the Spaniard said. “But they signed Zubimendi for a lot of money last year, so it’s difficult. To have both Tonali, Zubimendi, and Rice would be a lot, so I can only imagine that they would have to sell either Zubimendi or Declan Rice if they really want Tonali.”

Monreal was emphatic in his assessment of Arsenal’s existing midfield options, adding: “In my opinion, they already have the two best defensive midfielders in the world.”

The warning comes after Arsenal secured the £55 million signing of Martín Zubimendi from Real Sociedad last summer, a move that reshaped the dynamic of the club’s engine room. Zubimendi’s arrival allowed Declan Rice to operate in a more advanced role, a transition that contributed significantly to Rice being recognised as the standout performer in his position across the Premier League last season.

Tonali’s profile overlaps considerably with both Rice and Zubimendi, which lies at the heart of Monreal’s concern. The Italy international combines defensive solidity with technical quality and an ability to dictate tempo — attributes that made him one of Serie A’s most sought-after players before his move to Newcastle.

It is worth noting that Tonali served a 10-month ban from all football activity after admitting to breaches of betting regulations, a suspension that concluded in August 2024. His return to form since then has reinforced his standing as a elite-level midfielder, though that episode remains part of any assessment of his profile as a transfer target.

Arsenal’s midfield depth is already considerable. Beyond Rice and Zubimendi, Arteta has Thomas Partey, who is out of contract this summer, and Thomas, providing further options. Whether the club pursues Tonali despite the financial and selection complications flagged by Monreal remains to be seen, with the summer transfer window set to shape Arsenal’s title ambitions for the 2026-27 season.