Sandro Tonali is set for Newcastle United’s Premier League clash with Crystal Palace on Saturday and will be considered for selection by coach Eddie Howe, sources have told ESPN, despite being investigated in Italy for illegal betting.
The 23-year-old midfielder, a £55 million ($66.8 million) summer signing from AC Milan, was withdrawn last Thursday from Italy’s squad for their Euro 2024 qualifiers against Malta and England after the Italian Football Federation was informed by police about his involvement in the investigation. gambling case.
Aston Villa midfielder Nicolò Zaniolo, on loan this season at Galatasaray, was also left out of the Italy squad.
Unconfirmed reports in Italy say that Tonali faces a lengthy ban from football after admitting to betting on AC Milan matches during his time at the club.
Tonali’s agent, Giuseppe Riso, said on Tuesday that the player was “struggling with a gambling addiction” and that he was “shocked, shaken and saddened” as a consequence of his situation.
However, with Newcastle still waiting to receive full details of the investigation into Tonali, the club issued a statement on Wednesday to address speculation surrounding the player.
The statement read: “Newcastle United can confirm that Sandro Tonali is being investigated by the Italian Prosecutor’s Office and the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) in connection with illegal gambling activities.
Sandro Tonali is fully involved in the investigation and will continue to cooperate with all relevant authorities.
He and his family will continue to receive full support from the club.
Due to this ongoing process, Sandro and Newcastle United are unable to provide any further comment at this time.
Sources told ESPN that although the investigation is still ongoing with no sanctions against Tonali, he remains available for selection and his involvement in future matches will be decided by manager Howe.
Juventus midfielder Nicolo Fagioli was this week given a 12-month ban, with a five-month suspension, and fined £10,850 for breaching betting rules.
Fagiolo, who is now 22 years old, will also undergo therapy for his gambling problem.
