Liverpool Consider Tonali and Jones Swap as Newcastle Talks Gather Pace

Liverpool are once again being linked with a high-profile move involving Newcastle United, with Sandro Tonali emerging as a potential summer target and Curtis Jones featuring as a possible bargaining chip.

The latest reports follow a familiar pattern in recent transfer windows, where business between the two clubs has repeatedly captured national attention. As Kurtis Leyland wrote for LiverpoolWorld, “When Liverpool and Newcastle United do business it tends to be something that hits the headlines,” a sentiment that continues to ring true.

With Liverpool assessing midfield reinforcements and Newcastle facing pressure to balance their squad, a deal involving Tonali and Jones is being quietly monitored across the Premier League.

Liverpool Monitoring Sandro Tonali Situation

According to reports referenced by LiverpoolWorld and journalist Kurtis Leyland, Liverpool are maintaining a close watch on Sandro Tonali’s position at Newcastle. Spanish outlet Fichajes previously claimed that the Reds are preparing a summer approach as they look to strengthen their midfield options.

Tonali arrived in England with significant expectations after his high-profile move from AC Milan. He quickly established himself as one of Newcastle’s standout performers, delivering influential displays and playing a key role in their Champions League qualification campaign.

Last season, he underlined his quality in major fixtures, including a strong showing in the Carabao Cup final. However, this campaign has been more challenging, with injuries around him affecting Newcastle’s consistency and rhythm.

Despite the club’s continued backing, Tonali is understood to be assessing his long-term future. As Leyland noted, the Italian “proved he was one of the very best players in the Premier League last season,” underlining why elite clubs remain alert to any opening.

Newcastle Position and Agent Comments

Newcastle remain reluctant to sanction the departure of one of their key midfielders. The club invested heavily in Tonali and see him as central to their long-term project.

His agent, Giuseppe Riso, recently addressed the speculation, stating: “Newcastle are having a hard time letting go of Sandro, and he wants to lead the club to the Champions League. We’ll evaluate and decide what to do in the summer.”

These comments suggest that while Tonali is committed to performing at his best, future discussions are likely once the season concludes.

Manager Eddie Howe has also attempted to dampen the rumours. Speaking publicly, he said: “Our best players are always going to attract glances from other clubs. That’s just the reality of football. We want to keep the group together.”

Newcastle’s current league position has added further complexity. Sitting in the bottom half, they face growing pressure to improve results and stabilise their long-term ambitions in European competition.

Curtis Jones Role in Potential Negotiations

Liverpool’s interest in Tonali is strengthened by Newcastle’s reported admiration for Curtis Jones. The midfielder has made over 200 appearances for the club and remains a trusted squad option.

Jones is contracted until 2027 but has entered a phase of his career where regular first-team football is increasingly important. While valued by Liverpool, his long-term role remains open to review.

Kurtis Leyland highlighted this possibility, noting that Jones “fits the bill” as a potential replacement should Newcastle lose Tonali. His versatility, Premier League experience, and homegrown status make him an attractive option for Eddie Howe’s squad.

Including Jones in negotiations could significantly reduce Liverpool’s financial outlay and provide Newcastle with an immediate replacement option.

Financial Structure and Transfer Outlook

Valuation remains a key obstacle. Reports from Fichajes suggest Newcastle may place Tonali’s price close to £100 million, reflecting his importance and contract status.

However, Liverpool are unlikely to meet that figure in cash alone. A player-plus-cash proposal, potentially worth around £70 million with Jones included, could prove more realistic.

Such an approach mirrors previous high-profile dealings between the clubs, including the Alexander Isak transfer. As Leyland observed, that saga “dragged on throughout the entirety of the summer,” demonstrating how complex negotiations can become.

Competition from Arsenal and Manchester City also adds urgency to Liverpool’s thinking. Both clubs continue to monitor midfield options and could enter the race if Tonali becomes available.

For Liverpool, the deal represents a calculated gamble. Tonali would bring technical quality, tactical discipline, and Champions League experience. Newcastle, meanwhile, would gain a proven Premier League midfielder and financial flexibility.

Whether an agreement materialises remains uncertain, but early indicators suggest groundwork is being laid ahead of the summer window.