Newcastle United handed Borussia Dortmund concern as Sandro Tonali transfer ‘plan’ emerges

Newcastle United are now preparing for Champions League action after a big win in the Premier League. Eddie Howe’s men returned to winning ways in the league with a comfortable home win over Crystal Palace, and they are now preparing to take on Borussia Dortmund.

The Magpies are currently top of their group, three points ahead of Dortmund in bottom spot, and a win on Wednesday night would go a long way towards securing a spot in the knockout stages. In the meantime, we have rounded up all the latest news and transfer rumours surrounding St James’ Park.

Tonali blow

Newcastle are said to be likely to be without midfielder Sandro Tonali from Wednesday due to an upcoming announcement over his alleged betting violations. The Daily Mail’s Craig Hope has tweeted: “No announcement on Sandro Tonali ban expected tonight [Monday], but understanding is it will come before Wednesday, meaning he is unlikely to play against Dortmund.”

Tonali could receive a lengthy suspension over alleged betting violations from his time with AC Milan.

Phillips option

Newcastle are said to have a plan of sorts to deal with the likely suspension of Tonali, with Manchester City star Kalvin Phillips said to be of interest. iNews report the Magpies are eyeing a potential loan deal for Phillips in January, with the England international out of favour with Pep Guardiola. City and Phillips are said to be open to a loan move, but Newcastle may not be overly keen on paying the full £150,000-per-week wages.

Speaking about Phillips’ future, Guardiola said last week: “If he decides to do it [leave], then do it. If the agreement is not done, then he stays. He’s behaving incredibly. One of the most generous players I’ve ever seen – honestly, as I don’t want to compliment when players don’t play matches. Others are maybe problems in locker room – it’s completely the opposite. Every time he goes to national team with Gareth [Southgate] I’m the happiest man in the world. When he plays it’s a benefit for me. I don’t know what will happen with Kalvin because when the transfer window is open, nobody knows.”