Newcastle target ex-Man Utd star as Tonali replacement

Suraj Radia

28 Oct 2023 17:23 BST
3 min read

Eddie Howe, Newcastle, 2022/23 — © ProShots

Newcastle could turn to former Manchester United midfielder Fred as an option to replace the suspended Sandro Tonali as they consider players to bolster their midfield in January.

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Tonali will miss the rest of the season after his ten-month ban was confirmed by the FA and it leaves Newcastle short-staffed in midfield, with the club now looking at potential signings in January.

While the likes of Kalvin Phillips and Ruben Neves have been linked to the Magpies, a report from Turkish outlet Fotomac has claimed that Fred is one of four names on Eddie Howe’s shortlist.

CONTROVERSIAL: Newcastle could raise eyebrows with Tonali replacement

The 30-year-old only joined Fenerbahce in the summer for €10 million but has been integral for the Turkish giants during their 100% start to the season, featuring in eight of their nine league games.

A move for Fred would be surprising considering Newcastle’s preference for younger players while also being more likely to target loan signings – something which Fenerbahce would have no incentive to facilitate mid-season.

But the signing could offer Howe an experienced player with Premier League pedigree and who could slot in instantly as Newcastle look to replace their absent midfielder.

Will Newcastle sign Fred?

Tonali’s ban comes at a rough time for Newcastle, who have suffered injuries to a host of players leaving them short staffed in midfield.

Howe was forced to field a bench with two goalkeepers and six wing-backs against Wolves this weekend due to the absences of Tonali, Elliot Anderson and Alexander Isak amongst others.

🗣 "We're going to miss him badly ... but you have to find a way"

Newcastle boss Eddie Howe on how the team will cope without summer signing Sandro Tonali, after he received a 10-month ban for betting violations. pic.twitter.com/aN7UBgvAU3
— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) October 28, 2023

The return of Joe Willock from injuries is a welcome one for the Newcastle but the Magpies will likely be forced into a signing in January in order to continue their push for the top four as well as the Champions League and domestic cups.

OPINION: Why Tonali ban could be a blessing in disguise

Fred, meanwhile, may perhaps be a player of the profile that Newcastle would prefer to bring into their squad during Tonali’s absence but his importance to Fenerbache makes a return to England unlikely.