Monreal, however, admitted that Italian international Tonali is a brilliant player who will improve Arsenal’s midfield.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Former Spanish left-back Nacho Monreal has urged North London club Arsenal not to sign Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali this summer.
The 40-year-old defender gave the advice to his former team recently while speaking with Rekatochklart.
Tonali, who has had a brilliant season with the Magpies, has been linked with Arsenal and other top European clubs this summer.
However, Monreal believes the acquisition of the Italian international may force the Gunners to sell Martín Zubimendi or Declan Rice.
He went on to describe the duo as the two best defensive midfielders in the world right now.
Despite his warning, the Spaniard admitted that Tonali is an excellent player who would improve Mikel Arteta’s midfield.
Monreal warned, “If Arsenal buy Tonali, they will get one of the best midfielders in the world.”
He added, “But they signed Zubimendi for a lot of money last year, so it’s difficult.
“To have Tonali, Zubimendi, and Rice all together would be a lot, so I can only imagine that they would have to sell either Zubimendi or Declan Rice if they really want Tonali.
“In my opinion, they already have the two best defensive midfielders in the world.”
