Sandro Tonali available for Newcastle amid betting probe – sources،
Sandro Tonali is available for Newcastle United’s Premier League match against Crystal Palace on Saturday and will be considered for selection by manager Eddie Howe, sources have told ESPN, although he is under investigation in Italy for illegal betting.
The 23-year-old midfielder, signed this summer from AC Milan for £55 million, was last Thursday withdrawn from the Italian squad for the Euro 2024 qualifying matches against Malta and England after that the Italian Football Federation was informed by the police of his involvement. in a betting investigation. Aston Villa midfielder Nicolò Zaniolo, on loan this season to Galatasaray, was also excluded from the squad.
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Unconfirmed reports in Italy indicate that Tonali faces a lengthy suspension from football after admitting to betting on AC Milan matches while a player at the club.
Tonali’s agent, Giuseppe Riso, said on Tuesday that the player was “struggling with a gambling addiction” and was “shocked, shaken and sad” due to his situation.
But with Newcastle still waiting to receive full details of the investigation into Tonali, the club released a statement on Wednesday to address speculation surrounding the player.
The statement said: “Newcastle United can confirm that Sandro Tonali is the subject of an investigation by the Italian Prosecutor’s Office and the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) regarding illegal betting activities.
“Sandro is fully committed to the investigation and will continue to cooperate with all relevant authorities. He and his family will continue to receive the full support of the club.
“Due to this ongoing process, Sandro and Newcastle United are unable to make any further comment at this time.”
Sources have told ESPN that while the investigation continues without Tonali being sanctioned, he remains available for selection and his involvement in future matches will be decided by manager Howe.
Juventus midfielder Nicolo Fagioli was this week handed a 12-month ban, with five months suspended, and fined £10,850 for breaching betting rules. Fagiolo, 22, will also undergo therapy for his gambling problem.
