Investigation into Sandro Tonali's betting breaches nearing its conclusion

Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali could learn his fate within days as an investigation into alleged breaches of betting rules nears its conclusion.

The 23-year-old Italy international is subject to a probe by the Italian Prosecutor’s Office and Italian Football Federation (FIGC) in relation to illegal gambling activity, and reports in his native country have suggested he could face a 10-month ban.

That would rule the Magpies’ £55million summer signing out of the remainder of the season and his country’s Euro 2024 campaign should they qualify.

Asked about Tonali’s situation after Wednesday night’s 1-0 Champions League defeat by Borussia Dortmund at St James’ Park, in which the midfielder was used as a second-half substitute, Howe said: "I’ve got no update for you, I’m afraid because I’ve been concentrating on the game.

"I thought Sandro did well when he came on tonight – I thought he played with real quality and energy. I was delighted with his performance."

Tonali’s representatives are understood to have been in discussion with the Italian authorities this week in an attempt to plea-bargain his case.

Agent Giuseppe Riso last week issued a statement to say the player was living with a "gambling addition" and Howe has promised him the club’s full support.

However, an extended absence would deny Newcastle of the services of their big-money summer recruit for a sizeable proportion of his five-year contract and leave them with a major gap to plug at a time when injuries have already depleted Howe’s squad.

Tonali, who has reportedly admitted to gambling on former teams Brescia and Milan to win during his time with them, has made 12 appearances for the club since his arrival, but it remains to be seen if the latest is his last for