Newcastle United executives insist they retain complete control over Sandro Tonali's future ahead of the forthcoming summer transfer window. It's been reported that Manchester United are plotting a summer approach, yet senior figures at St James' Park remain unconcerned by suggestions that Tonali will leave at the end of the season.

The midfielder remains under contract until 2028 with the option of a further year, meaning Newcastle can command whatever transfer fee they see fit for the midfielder. Tonali has no release clauses or special arrangements within his current agreement with the club. According to The Chronicle, any suggestion of a 'gentleman's agreement' to leave at the end of the season, should Newcastle fail to secure European football, is 'totally untrue'.

What has proved problematic, however, is that Tonali's representative, Giuseppe Riso, has spoken candidly about his client's prospects of leaving the Magpies.

When questioned about a potential switch to either Man City or Arsenal earlier this month, Riso said: "Exactly, that was the goal from the moment he went to England - to try to make him a star player.

"I think he's the Italian footballer with one of the highest values in the world. If he shines at the World Cup, will City or Arsenal be hot on his heels? I don't know, but it's very likely.

"Everyone is waiting for the World Cup, then a thousand scenarios will unfold, but it all kicks off after the World Cup."

Howe swiftly dismissed that rumour last week in Barcelona, saying: "The person that matters the most is Sandro. All I've ever seen from him is someone who is totally committed.

"Very selfless at times, he's here for the team, not for himself. Forget the noise around him, he's just fully committed."

Howe is becoming increasingly frustrated with persistent reports of his key players leaving, and branded suggestions of Bruno Guimaraes being in advanced talks with Manchester United last week as 'disrespectful'.

It is understood that Howe has taken a similarly dim view of reports linking Tonali with the Red Devils.

It's claimed that Newcastle have received no approaches for any of their players ahead of the summer transfer window, and no arrangements are in place for any player to leave should they fail to qualify for Europe.

Tonali revealed earlier this month that he would like to be considered for Newcastle's leadership group next season.

When asked whether he'd like to fill the void left by Jamaal Lascelles ahead of next term, Tonali told beIN SPORTS: "Yeah, of course. We are a bit different because Jamaal was a great leader.

"He spoke every week, every game to our team, to every player. He was great with everybody, and alone in the private meetings and really was a bit different to me.

"It would be a little bit tough because it's not my first language, but I will try. I try to do my best. I try to help every player in the pitch. And I think this is should be for every player, not just for me."

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