Newcastle United ace Sandro Tonali's agent Beppe Riso admits his client has a gambling problem.

The midfielder is the subject of a possible criminal probe regarding illegal gambling in Italy.

The former AC Milan star left his home country in the summer for the Magpies in a move that came as a surprise at the time.

According to Italian media outlet CalcioNews24, Riso told reporters: "He [Tonali] knows he made a mistake and is quite shaken.

"But he understands that he must face the matter with determination. Newcastle have always been close to him. He is playing the most important game of his career, that of gambling addiction, but I am sure he will win it."

Riso added: "Sandro is in shock, but he is continuing to train and maybe on Saturday he will even be able to play.

“I hope this gambling addiction issue will help to save Sandro's life as well as many other young guys affected by same problem.

"Sandro understood that he has to focus on this issue and face gambling addiction with strong, determined approach".