Newcastle consider legal action against AC Milan after being sold ‘gambling addict’ Sandro Tonali in £55m transfer
AC MILAN could face legal action from Newcastle for selling them ‘gambling addict’ Sandro Tonali — who faces a ten-month ban.
The £55million midfielder came off the Toon bench during last night’s Champions League clash with Borussia Dortmund.
But that is sure to be his last appearance until next season after he admitted betting on his former clubs Brescia and Milan to win.
Tonali, 23, has also agreed to therapy and to support anti-gambling initiatives.
Newcastle vowed to “throw their arms” around the Italian — but club chiefs will also explore all legal options.
And reports in Italy also claim Tonali’s £7m-a-year salary could be suspended.
Questions remain as to whether Milan knew about Tonali’s ‘addiction’ and an illegal gambling probe before selling him.
Tonali will miss the rest of this campaign and next summer’s Euros if Italy qualify — but he is expected to be allowed to train with the Magpies during his suspension.
Brentford’s Ivan Toney was banned for eight months in May for breaching FA betting rules but not allowed to train with his club for the first four.
Tonali’s representatives are believed to have come to an agreement with Italian authorities after seeking a plea bargain.
His agent Beppe Riso revealed: “He knows he made a mistake and is quite shaken.
“But he understands he must face the matter with determination. He is playing the most important game of his career, that of gambling addiction, but I am sure he will win it.”
Tonali, Aston Villa midfielder Nicolo Zaniolo and Juventus’ Nicolo Fagioli were all named as part of an investigation by Turin prosecutors.
Fagioli was last week banned for seven months, although Juve agreed to pay his full wages and he will continue to train with the first team.
The 22-year-old had his punishment reduced after admitting his guilt and co-operating with officials.
Villa have confirmed Zaniolo, 24, is also helping the investigation and has recently met with senior club officials.