Tonali explains why he’s not affected by speculation that he’ll leave Newcastle

MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 20: Sandro Tonali of Italy makes a pass whilst under pressure from Joshua Kimmich of Germany during the UEFA Nations League quarterfinal leg one match between Italy and Germany at Stadio San Siro on March 20, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

Italy international Sandro Tonali says Newcastle have some of the ‘best fans in the world’ and insists he’s not affected by transfer speculation: ‘I don’t use social media much.’

Tonali won his first trophy in England two weeks ago when his Newcastle side beat Liverpool 2-1 in the EFL Cup Final.

Today, the Magpies celebrated with their fans during an open-top bus parade.

“The Final was amazing, 100%. It was amazing to win the trophy with these fans after 70 years,” Tonali told Sky Sports UK.

“It’s difficult to speak because it’s the first time for all the fans at Wembley. I think this trophy is so important for every person in Newcastle.  Every day, in every game, Newcastle fans have passion and love for the players, staff, and everybody on the Newcastle team.”

Tonali explains why he’s not affected by speculation that he’ll leave Newcastle

Tonali had already won a Serie A title with Milan in 2021-22, but what did he feel when he lifted the trophy in Wembley?

“It was a big emotion. If you play the Final, it’s amazing, perhaps the best thing in the world, for every trophy, not just the trophy with Newcastle,” he said.

“Maybe even a win or a loss was the same thing for the fans. This is fantastic. We are lucky because we have some of the best fans in the world. We are so lucky.”

Tonali has been linked with a move elsewhere over the summer, with Milan, Juventus and even Barcelona reportedly interested in the Italian midfielder.

Sky Sports UK asked Tonali whether transfer speculation affects his focus during the week, but it doesn’t seem to be the case.

“I don’t use my phone a lot, just for my family,” he replied.

“I don’t use social media much. I have social media, but I use it just after a game for highlights, not for transfers.

“It’s not for the gambling, but for my life. It was similar when I was 17,” he insisted.

“I was young, but it was similar. I’ve never used the phone much, just for my family and my people.”

Tonali has scored three goals and provided two assists in 35 appearances with Newcastle this season.