Sandro Tonali: The Newcastle player signed a contract extension while on a betting ban

Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali has signed a contract extension during a betting ban, meaning his deal could run until 2030.

Tonali joined Newcastle on an initial five-year deal after completing a £55m move from Milan in July 2023.

But the Italian was later banned for 10 months in October that year by the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) for breaching betting rules.

Newcastle supported Tonali during his suspension and it is understood the two parties sat down to discuss a possible contract extension while he is suspended.

Tonali was keen to repay the club’s confidence in him, extending his contract for a year until 2029.

The club also has the option to activate a further 12-month extension until 2030.

Although Newcastle could still sit down to discuss new terms with Tonali in the future, the club will not be in a vulnerable position as he only has two years left on his contract.

It gives Newcastle extra protection after Tonali became a pivotal player under manager Eddie Howe.

“His physicality is one of the standout attributes he has,” Howe said earlier this month. “He constantly makes a difference for us that way.

“Most midfielders have to have that athletic element and it’s better to change pace when we’re under attack, or when we need to get forward.

“He has a few gear changes but then add to that his technical ability and tactical understanding, it makes him a really good player.”