Instead, Newcastle secretly extended Tonali’s contract while he was banned for 10 months and with the option of another year, they are well protected should anyone look to poach the player next summer. It also illustrates Tonali’s goodwill towards the club who he felt he had let down when he was banned so soon after joining.
Newcastle have learned the hard way contracts do not count for much when a player is adamant they want to leave. Isak went on strike for weeks to force them to sanction his British transfer record move to Liverpool, even though he had three years left on his deal.
But the fact Tonali was so keen to extend almost two years ago, out of loyalty to Newcastle, and in appreciation of the fact they stood by him when he was at his lowest ebb, does not point to a player who will go to such extreme lengths.
There is bound to be interest in a player of Tonali’s talent but Newcastle’s hand in negotiations will be a strong one should anyone make an approach.
It is a big boost to Howe, as well as the club’s supporters, who would love to see Tonali remain at St James’ Park for as long as possible.
At the age of 25, there will be no pressure to cash in on Tonali at the end of the season and it does not seem likely he will push to leave either.
