Newcastle United are reportedly set to prioritise a new central midfielder in the January transfer window, amid uncertainty over Sandro Tonali's availability.
The Magpies recently released a statement to confirm that Tonali is the subject of an Italian football betting investigation.
After being forced to withdraw from the Italy squad earlier this month, Tonali was questioned by the relevant authorities.
The 23-year-old has admitted to betting on matches during his time with AC Milan, while his agent has revealed that his client has been struggling with a gambling addiction.
With the investigation still ongoing, Tonali continues to be available for selection, but he is at risk of receiving a lengthy ban.
The Italy international has featured regularly for Eddie Howe's side since completing a £55m transfer from AC Milan in the summer.
Tonali, who scored on his Premier League debut against Aston Villa, has made 11 appearances for the Magpies across all competitions.
While Howe can call upon Tonali's services at the moment, the prospect of a ban has forced the club to draw up contingency plans.
According to Football Insider, Newcastle are now prioritising a new central midfielder for the January transfer window.
Howe can currently call upon the likes of Bruno Guimaraes, Sean Longstaff, Joelinton, Elliot Anderson and Joe Willock.
However, with the Magpies looking to reach the knockout stages of the Champions League, they want to have enough strength-in-depth to contend with a busy schedule.
Real Madrid midfielder Dani Ceballos is believed to be on Newcastle's radar, with the Magpies preparing to make a £17.5m fee.
With Tonali still allowed to play, he is expected to be involved in Wednesday's Champions League home meeting with Borussia Dortmund.
The Magpies are looking to remain unbeaten in the group stage after following a goalless draw against AC Milan with a commanding 4-1 win over Paris Saint-Germain. body check tags ::
