Newcastle have confirmed that Sandro Tonali has been charged by the FA for allegedly breaching betting rules.
talkSPORT revealed in November the Italian was being investigated by the FA for offences separate to those committed in Italy that resulted in his ten-month worldwide ban.
The £55million midfielder, signed from AC Milan last summer, is now accused of breaking betting rules 50 times between August 12 and October 12, after his move to St James’ Park.
Tonali is believed to be cooperating with the FA amid fears he could face further sanctions.
An FA statement read: “Sandro Tonali has been charged with misconduct in relation to alleged breaches of The FA’s Betting Rules.
“It’s alleged that the Newcastle United midfielder breached FA Rule E8 50 times by placing bets on football matches between 12 August 2023 and 12 October 2023.
“Sandro Tonali has until 5 April 2024 to respond.”
Tonali made 12 appearances for Newcastle – the last of which came in the 1-0 Champions League defeat to Borussia Dortmund on October 25.
His initial ban from the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) was related to placing bets on matches he featured in during his time in Serie A.
It meant that Tonali was instantly sidelined for the remainder of the 2023/24 season and he will also miss Euro 2024 with Italy.
His lengthy suspension was due to expire on August 27, 2024, but Newcastle must now wait to see if further FA punishment follows.
In a statement, the Magpies said: “Newcastle United acknowledges a misconduct charge received by Sandro Tonali in respect of alleged breaches of FA Betting Rules.
“Sandro continues to fully comply with relevant investigations and he retains the club’s full support.
“Due to this ongoing process, Sandro and Newcastle United are unable to offer further comment at this time.”
More to follow…