Kalulu admits close Tonali bond as Juventus interest builds

Juventus defender Pierre Kalulu has acknowledged his close relationship with Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali, as speculation around a possible summer transfer continues to gather momentum in Italy.

Kalulu was speaking to Tuttosport in an interview relayed by Calciomercato, where he was asked directly about Tonali — a player Juventus have been strongly linked with for months as they plan a major midfield rebuild.

Tonali has been repeatedly named as a priority target for Juventus, who are understood to be searching for an elite-level midfielder ahead of next season. Reports this week suggested the Turin club could be willing to offer a package worth around €7m per year to tempt the Italy international back to Serie A.

The speculation has been fuelled further by claims that Tonali has spoken privately about homesickness since his move to England, with suggestions he would welcome a return to Italy at the right time. While no formal talks have been confirmed, Juventus are believed to be laying the groundwork for a serious summer move.

Any deal, however, would come at a significant cost, with Newcastle unlikely to part with one of their key assets cheaply.

When asked about the Newcastle midfielder, Kalulu was careful not to inflame the rumours — but did not hide the personal connection between the two.

“Sandro is a friend, we won a Scudetto together, and I’m very close to him,” Kalulu said.
“He’s certainly a strong player, but we’re on two different teams now. I wish him the best, but today I’m happy with the teammates I play with. Then… we’ll see.”

The pair were teammates during AC Milan’s title-winning season, and Kalulu’s comments underline how strong that bond remains despite Tonali’s move to the Premier League.

From Newcastle’s perspective, Tonali remains a central part of their long-term plans. The club have shown little public interest in selling, though Juventus’ persistence suggests this will remain one of the biggest stories to watch as the summer window approaches.

For now, the links remain speculative — but comments like Kalulu’s will only add fuel to an already well-established narrative in Italy.

Juventus are not just chasing quality — they’re chasing identity. Tonali fits both the sporting and cultural profile they want to rebuild around. Kalulu’s comments may be cautious, but they quietly reinforce why this transfer rumour refuses to die.

As Juventus prepare their summer strategy, Tonali’s situation will continue to dominate headlines. Whether Newcastle’s resolve can withstand sustained interest from Italy remains to be seen.

Until then, the midfielder’s performances — and any further hints from those close to him — will be closely scrutinised.

Could Sandro Tonali really be tempted back to Italy this summer?