Sandro Tonali’s statements have once again sparked hope among AC Milan fans for his potential return, as the talented midfielder hinted at the possibility of one day donning the iconic Rossoneri kit again. Speaking to La Repubblica, Tonali reflected on his departure from Milan and offered insights about his future, saying, "I have no regrets. The idea of returning to Milan one day is there, but it’s not the thought when I wake up in the morning." His comments, though hopeful, raise the question: how realistic is it for him to return to his boyhood club?
Tonali’s exit from Milan occurred during the summer of 2023 when he transferred to Newcastle United for €58.9 million, which provided AC Milan with a capital gain of €48.4 million. While this transfer bolstered Milan’s financial standing, it has left fans mourning the loss of one of their beloved players. Despite his deep connection with the club, Tonali’s return would be far from straightforward due to significant financial hurdles and contractual obligations with Newcastle.
The current climate at Newcastle is not leaning toward selling Tonali anytime soon, especially after his lengthy ban which limited his playing time. Reports indicate initiating any discussions about his return would require at least €50-55 million. Although this may seem high, AC Milan has shown interest and commitment to investing wisely. Recent signings have proven their willingness to pay up for the right talent, yet a deal for Tonali might be complicated without adjusting the financial terms.
One potential route for Milan to lessen the cash demand could involve negotiating player exchanges. Malick Thiaw, for example, is highly regarded by Newcastle’s coach Eddie Howe, and previous communications about Thiaw’s value nearing €35 million suggest he could be included as part of the deal, potentially lowering the cash sum required to bring Tonali back.
Beyond transfer fees, Tonali's salary poses another substantial obstacle. Currently, he earns €7 million net annually—more than double what he took home at Milan, where Rafael Leao sits as the top earner with €5 million plus bonuses. Bringing Tonali’s earnings back to the San Siro would require not just financial adjustments on AC Milan's part, but also some concessions from Tonali himself, especially since the Growth Decree’s tax benefits would not apply upon his return.
Despite these hurdles, the emotional connection Tonali has with Milan remains strong. He reminisces fondly about his time at the club, noting, "When I wore the captain's armband for Milan, I cherished every moment; I recall each match vividly—against Empoli, Torino, and Chelsea. That bond will always matter to me." His words highlight the enduring affection for Milan, which continues to resonate among fans who frequently hope for his return.
Tonali’s recent insights speak not only to his past but also to the current challenges he faces. He remarked, "It’s difficult; you can’t decide alone. It’s all about money—the players and clubs. When you say no, the club must also say no. There are always negotiations, and at great teams where money is involved, being a symbol becomes challenging." This candid assessment of his transfer from Milan to Newcastle provides clarity on the complications of high-stakes football transactions.
With both clubs under constant scrutiny during transfer windows, the idea of Tonali rejoining Milan is a subject of passionate discussion and speculation. Supporters continuously recall his contributions to the Scudetto victory of 2022, emphasizing the impact of his departure. For now, he is focused on his career at Newcastle, stating, "I’ve grown, discovered a new country, new football, and language. I have no regrets on this path." He understands the significance of his immediate future, noting, "Right now, I’m dedicated to winning for Newcastle fans, aiming for success with my current club.“
Though challenges loom over the financial feasibility of Tonali’s return to Milan, his heartfelt linkage to the club leaves room for optimism. Future negotiations may not seem easy, but as Tonali reiterated, "The idea of returning is there," which implies his heart may still belong to the Rossoneri. For fans, this opens the door for hopeful discussions about the possibility of bringing the beloved midfielder back home, allowing the dreams of many to live on.