Tonali agent Riso refutes exit talk

Sandro Tonali's agent Giuseppe Riso has denied reports in Italy suggesting the midfielder wants to return to Serie A.

The Italy international, 24, joined Newcastle in a £58m deal from AC Milan but his positive start was disrupted by a 10-month ban for gambling offences.

Since returning in late August, Tonali has slowly begun re-establishing himself at St James' Park but has found himself in and out of the team.

It has led to reports from Italy suggesting he could leave Newcastle in the coming January transfer window.

But a statement from his agency released to BBC Sport denies those claims.

It reads: "Sandro is not considering a return to Serie A. He's happy at Newcastle, happy to play in the best league in the world and is an idol for Newcastle fans who've always supported him."