Newcastle United star Sandro Tonali has reportedly been questioned by police over possible involvement in illegal betting.
Both players were selected to play for Italy ahead of the upcoming Euro 2024 qualifier against England. However, their involvement could now be in doubt due to the latest developments.
On Thursday evening, transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano wrote on social media: “BREAKING: Nicolò Zaniolo and Sandro Tonali have been questioned by authorities.
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“This happens after being accused about possible involvement in illegal betting.
“Aston Villa and Newcastle players have both left Italy training camp after speaking to the police.”
According to Italian news outlet RAI Sport, Tonali and Zaniolo were accompanied by Italy delegation chief Gigi Buffon as the pair spoke to investigators about the allegations.
It has been alleged that Zaniolo was placing bets on Roma’s Coppa Italia matches while he was in the squad.
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SPORTbible has contacted Sandro Tonali and Nicolo Zaniolo’s representatives for comment.
According to Romano, a statement from the Italian Federation said: “The Federation announces that, in the late afternoon of today, the Public Prosecutor's Office of Turin has notified investigative acts to footballers Sandro Tonali and Nicolò Zaniolo, currently meeting with the national team at the Federal Technical Center of Coverciano.
“Regardless of the nature of the acts, considering that in this situation the two players are not in the necessary condition to face the commitments scheduled in the coming days, the Federation has decided, also to protect them, to allow them to return to their respective clubs”.
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Both players made summer moves to the Premier League this summer.
Tonali left AC Milan for Newcastle in a big-money move whilst Zaniolo left Turkish side Galatasaray on loan to join Unai Emery’s Villa side.
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Featured Image Credit: GettyTopics: Sandro Tonali, Newcastle United, Football, Fabrizio Romano, Aston Villa