Newcastle are reeling from the news that midfielder Sandro Tonali will be unavailable for 10 months after breaking betting rules.
The Magpies spent £54million to sign Tonali, 23, from AC Milan during the summer but will now try to find a replacement in January, with Manchester City's Kalvin Phillips on their shortlist. The Italian's agent has confirmed his client has a gambling problem.
The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has confirmed that Tonali will also need to complete eight months of rehab and make several public appearances. It's believed his £11million annual salary will be suspended, but he will be allowed to train and play in friendlies.
Tonali was initially facing a multi-year ban, but FICG president Gabriele Gravina agreed to reduce his punishment after he collaborated "above and beyond expectations" with the investigation. The player's legal team travelled to Rome to negotiate a plea bargain.
"The FIGC Prosecutor and Tonali have reached an agreement which I have already approved," Gravina told reporters in Italy on Thursday. "The agreement consists of a 10-month ban plus eight months of rehab activities and at least 16 public appearances."
Gravina continued: "Rules provide a ban for a few years, but there can be a plea agreement and attenuating circumstances. The guys collaborated above and beyond expectations, so we will continue to follow the rules we had adopted."
Tonali featured in Newcastle's 1-0 defeat to Champions League rivals Borussia Dortmund on Wednesday but will miss countless games for club in country. Assuming the ban started on October 26, here is a full list of fixtures Tonali will miss...
Premier League
Champions League
Carabao Cup
FA Cup
Italy
Dates correct as of October 26, subject to change.
Newcastle will enter the Europa League if they finish third in their Champions League group.