Former Manchester United midfielder says Juventus target is better than Declan Rice

Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali has once again found himself at the center of transfer speculation, with new reports in Italy suggesting that Juventus could be preparing an ambitious move to bring him back to Serie A.

However, football legend Paul Scholes believes that Tonali’s quality and influence at Newcastle make such a transfer highly unlikely  unless an Italian club can afford a record-breaking fee.

Speaking on The Overlap podcast, Scholes praised the Italian midfielder’s technical ability, vision, and composure, even ranking him above England star Declan Rice and Chelsea’s Moises Caicedo.

Paul Scholes of Manchester United celebrates scoring the opening goal during the UEFA Champions League Semi Final, second leg match.

“I love Sandro Tonali. He’s been brilliant. Very good. If I had to choose, I’d pick Tonali at this point,” Scholes said.

“Yes, you’re going to say Declan Rice, but I think Tonali is better than Rice. I really like Rice — he’s got everything  but sometimes he takes too many touches and tries to look more stylish than necessary. Tonali just controls the game better.”

Scholes also pointed out that Tonali has the kind of all-round qualities that make him one of the Premier League’s best midfielders right now, capable of both dictating play and contributing goals.

Tonali has never hidden his love for Italy or his desire to return home someday, but Newcastle fans shouldn’t panic just yet.

The midfielder is said to be fully committed to Eddie Howe’s project and believes he still has “unfinished business” in England after a mixed first year at St James’ Park.

Sandro Tonali of Newcastle United celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Premier League match between Newcastle United FC and Chelsea FC.

For now, Serie A’s financial reality makes a return unrealistic. The Premier League’s financial power remains unmatched, and Tonali’s reported £105 million valuation would make any potential transfer nearly impossible for Italian clubs.

At 25, Tonali has become one of Newcastle’s key players, adding creativity and discipline in midfield. Since arriving from AC Milan, he has adapted well to the intensity of English football and earned praise from both teammates and pundits.

Scholes’ comparison only underlines his growing reputation. With Manchester United, Arsenal, and Chelsea all monitoring top midfielders across Europe, Tonali’s performances could soon place him among the most valuable players in the Premier League.

Sandro Tonali of Italy warms up during Italy training session at Centro Tecnico Federale di Coverciano on October 12, 2023 in Florence, Italy.

While speculation will continue during international breaks — especially with his agent based in Italy — there’s no indication Tonali plans to leave Newcastle anytime soon.

If Declan Rice was worth £105 million, then Tonali’s value could easily exceed that, especially given his age and versatility.

For now, Newcastle fans can rest easy. Tonali may one day return to Serie A, but that dream looks far away  and Eddie Howe will hope to keep building his midfield around one of Europe’s brightest talents.