Newcastle United are quietly enjoying a good season. They have already registered victories over PSG, Manchester United, and Manchester City. Eddie Howe’s vision seemed to be taking shape. On the pitch, things are going according to plan. Off the pitch, it’s a completely different story. Star summer signing Sandro Tonali faces a 10-month ban for breaching gambling rules at his previous clubs. Dan Ashworth, the director of soccer, has said the club will be looking to sign a replacement for the Italian. Despite rumors, one player who will not be making the switch to St. James Park is Ruben Neves.

Tonali arrived in the summer as the second-most expensive Newcastle player ever. The versatile Italian midfielder is energetic and a good ball carrier. He ranks in the 88th percentile for XAG (Fbref), showcasing his ability in the final third. The perfect stylistic fit for a team that is fast and aggressive Unfortunately, Newcastle will not be able to call him up this season. And now they will have to hunt for a quality replacement.

Ruben Neves won’t be making the switch to Newcastle United

Ruben Neves was a hot name on the list of rumored targets for the ‘Magpies’. The former Wolves man is experienced and premier league-proven. More importantly, he plays for a PIF-owned club, Al Hilal. They also own Al Nassr, Al Ittihad, and Al Ahli. PIF also has an 80% stake in Newcastle. Therefore, arranging transfers between these clubs is fairly easy. Hence, Ruben Neves could have been loaned to Newcastle in January. However, the Newcastle Middle East director has clarified the situation. He explained that Neves is currently not on the table for Newcastle.

Stylistically, Ruben Neves is a player with similar attributes to Tonali. Both are central midfielders with good physical and technical qualities. Both are quality set-piece options as well. Perhaps Newcastle might be careful about a transfer to another PIF club. They already received criticism when Saint Maximin was transferred to Al Ahli. This might be their way to keep a low profile. But the doubt still lingers about who will be chosen to fill the gaps.

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If not Neves, then who?

If Newcastle stays clear of Neves, a good option would be Kalvin Philips. The former Leeds Man is finding game time difficult at Etihad. He also possesses the qualities of both Tonali and Neves. However, the operation would be expensive.

Cheaper options include Amadou Onana from Everton and Khephren Thuram of Nice. These are players who are capable of replacing and playing alongside Tonali. The Italian is only 23 years old and will be a big part of Newcastle in the coming years. Hence, any midfielder should be capable of thriving alongside the former Milan playmaker as well.

Should Newcastle sign a replacement for Tonali? Or can they afford to go a season without their talisman? Have your say in the comments below.

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