Arsenal are increasingly likely to sign Sandro Tonali after Newcastle United identified AS Monaco’s Lamine Camara as a potential replacement, according to reports from The Telegraph. The development suggests Newcastle are preparing for the possible departure of the Italian midfielder this summer.
Tonali has been a key figure for Newcastle since joining from AC Milan in 2023, playing a pivotal role in their 2025 Carabao Cup triumph, ending a 70-year trophy drought. However, the club is reportedly undergoing a rebuild under manager Eddie Howe, and Tonali could follow Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon out of the club.
Interest in Tonali extends beyond Arsenal, with both Manchester United and Manchester City also linked with a move. The Athletic reports Manchester United’s interest, though his reported €115million (£100m) asking price presents a significant obstacle. Manchester Evening News claims Manchester City are pursuing Tonali separately from their interest in Elliot Anderson of Nottingham Forest. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is reportedly seeking a versatile midfielder capable of playing both as a defensive and central midfielder, making Tonali a suitable target.
Newcastle are now focusing on Camara as a replacement should Tonali leave. The 22-year-old Senegal international has made 71 appearances for Monaco, scoring six goals, and is valued at approximately €30m (£25.8m). L’Equipe reports that Liverpool have also been monitoring Camara’s progress. Monaco endured a disappointing 2025-26 season, finishing seventh in Ligue 1 and subsequently sacking manager Sebastian Pocognoli.
In addition to pursuing Camara, Newcastle are also reportedly close to signing Reims goalkeeper Ewen Jaouen for a fee of €28m (£24.2m), according to BBC Sport. The 20-year-old France Under-21 international made 60 appearances for Reims last season. A deal for Jaouen is not yet finalized, but negotiations are progressing.
Tonali made 53 appearances for Newcastle across all competitions in the 2025/26 season, scoring three goals and providing six assists. The potential arrival of Camara would provide Newcastle with a dynamic midfield option as they navigate a period of squad reconstruction.
