Newcastle United give star midfielder a secret contract extension until 2029

In a stunning vote of confidence that speaks volumes about the club’s long-term vision, Newcastle United have reportedly agreed to a secret contract extension with midfielder Sandro Tonali, tying him to St. James' Park until 2029, with an option extending to 2030.

‼️ 🇮🇹 Sandro Tonali’s contract has been extended until 2029, with Newcastle also having the option of an additional year.
🤝 The Italian agreed the deal in secret during his ban for illegal betting, to protect #NUFC financially with them having not been able to use him for 10… pic.twitter.com/5k3wSdqZzh

This major extension was allegedly signed while the Italian international was already serving his ten-month ban for illegal betting activity.

The news signifies an unprecedented show of faith from Newcastle chiefs, who have backed Tonali since the betting investigation first surfaced last year.

With the midfielder still unable to play competitively until late August 2026, this new deal solidifies his status as a cornerstone of the club’s future, despite the financial sacrifice he made on wages during his current suspension.

The secret deal extends beyond his initial terms

Tonali originally signed a five-year deal until 2028 upon his club-record £55 million move from AC Milan in the summer of 2023.

However, reports claim that under the guidance of former Sporting Director Dan Ashworth, Newcastle secretly extended his terms during the period of his playing ban.

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The new agreement reportedly runs until June 2029, with an additional 12-month club option that could see him tied down until 2030.

This commitment suggests the club values the player's quality, character, and technical ability above the immediate short-term implications of the ban.

Tonali himself has expressed a desire to repay the club, having stated he found his "balance at Newcastle" and is not closing the door on returning to Serie A "maybe not now."

A testament to trust 

This act of loyalty comes after Tonali fully cooperated with both the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) and the English FA over betting investigations, receiving a suspended two-month FA ban that will run concurrently with his existing sanction.

Manager Eddie Howe has always reiterated the club's support for Tonali’s rehabilitation and has praised his technical quality, even calling him the best midfielder in the league at one point.

With the team now in the hands of new Sporting Director Ross Wilson, securing the long-term future of such a talented player, who the club believes is technically outstanding, proves that Newcastle intends to build its European aspirations around him once he returns to action in the second half of next season.

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