Newcastle will investigate all legal possibilities as they digest the shocking news that summer signing Sandro Tonali will face at least a 12-month ban for illicit betting.
The Football Association is likewise awaiting confirmation of the sentence imposed by Italian authorities before reviewing whether any regulations were violated within its authority.
According to Italian media, Tonali admitted to betting on Milan as a player for the club, which carries a three-year sentence.
However, his admission of guilt and desire to seek treatment for what his agent refers to as a ‘gambling addiction’ will assist in decreasing the possibility of a suspension. He also allegedly did not gamble on Milan losing games.
According to Mail Sport, an announcement on the length of the suspension might come as soon as next week.
Newcastle must now investigate how much Milan and Tonali knew about the illicit gambling probe when they paid £52 million for the Italy international in July. At the time, head coach Eddie Howe expressed his excitement and astonishment at being able to secure a contract for Milan’s 23-year-old captain.
Tonali would have been aware that he had violated betting laws, and while Newcastle has stated that they support him and his family, it does raise doubts about the club paying a hefty wage to a player who is going to be punished for crimes that occurred before they owned him.
‘Newcastle United can announce that Sandro Tonali is under investigation by the Italian Prosecutor’s Office and the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) in relation to illicit betting activities,’ the club stated in a statement.
‘Sandro is fully engaging with the investigation and will continue to cooperate with all relevant authorities. He and his family will continue to receive the club’s full support.
‘Due to this ongoing process, Sandro and Newcastle United are unable to offer further comment at this time.’
