Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali could be involved in Saturday’s Premier League clash with Wolves despite being handed a 10-month ban.

The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) confirmed on Thursday that the 23-year-old had been suspended until next season after agreeing a plea bargain as part of an investigation into illegal betting activity.

However, Newcastle say they are yet to be officially informed of the ban, which is yet to be ratified by the world governing body FIFA. As it stands, the summer signing from AC Milan is due to travel to the Midlands on Friday afternoon with the rest of the squad.

Magpies head coach, Eddie Howe, said, “It’s a difficult one because we haven’t had official confirmation as a football club yet.

“We’ve heard the news, the statement, but we haven’t had anything from the Italian authorities at the moment, so we’re in limbo, really, waiting for that official confirmation to come through.”

Asked if there was a chance the Italy international could be involved at Molineux, Howe added, “Yes, I think there’s a high chance again that he could be available for us.

“I still think there are a few things that have to happen before the ban is imposed, so let’s see.”

The Italy international was also fined €20,000 ($21,130) and will have to undergo eight months of therapy and carry out a series of public appearances.

Tonali found himself at the centre of a probe during October’s international break into breaches of betting rules and was alleged to have wagered on games involving former clubs Brescia and Milan during his spells with them.

(dpa/NAN)