Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali was linked with a move to Arsenal on transfer deadline day, but although he could be considered again in the summer, the Italian’s move never materialized.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is said to be a fan of Sandro Tonali (Image: Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta is reportedly a big fan of Sandro Tonali amid rumors of a surprise move for the Newcastle United midfielder. The Italian was suddenly linked with a switch to the Emirates Stadium on deadline day.
Reports emerged on Monday morning suggesting the Gunners were considering an approach for Tonali. Sky Germany suggested that talks had taken place over a possible move to Arsenal before Monday’s 7pm deadline, but a move did not materialize.
The rumored interest followed an injury to Spain international Mikel Merino, who required foot surgery. Despite this, poaching one of Newcastle’s top players always seemed unlikely, and the Magpies were quick to deny any suggestions of the 25-year-old’s departure, describing the rumors as “complete rubbish”.
Tonali’s agent Giuseppe Riso also confirmed later in the day that no talks had taken place with the Gunners. He said: “Newcastle had no intention of letting Tonali leave in January.
“Absolutely nothing about it. We’ve never even talked about it.”
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However, there is no possibility of a summer transfer, with The Sun reporting that Arteta is a big fan. The Spaniard is said to be looking to pair up with Declan Rice in the middle of the park and add to the north London side.
However, it could be worrying news for summer signing Martin Zvimendi, given that Arsenal are unlikely to use all three players in midfield for most games.
In addition to Arsenal’s interest, the Gunners reportedly face a huge battle for their star signing. Manchester City boss Josep Guardiola is said to be a big fan, but the Catalan’s future at the Etihad after this summer remains uncertain, with Chelsea also said to be monitoring his situation.
Sandro Tonali made headlines on transfer deadline day (Image: George Wood/Getty Images)
Tonali signed an initial five-year contract after joining from AC Milan for £55m in July 2023, but was subsequently suspended for 10 months by the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) in October 2023 for breaching gambling regulations.
The Italy international agreed to extend his contract during the gambling ban, so his current contract runs until 2029, with Newcastle holding an option to extend it by a further 12 months until 2030.
Tonali has not given any hints about his next move, but previously admitted he could end up returning to Milan. In early 2025, he denied reports of a possible move to Juventus and insisted he was not considering a move, despite admitting he had unfinished business at the San Siro.
“I grew up and discovered a new country, a new style of football, a new language. I have no regrets. I have thoughts of returning to Milan someday, but it’s not the first thing that goes through my mind when I wake up in the morning,” he said.
“My agent and I haven’t even talked about it (interest in Juventus) and I know from experience that nothing is concrete until you reach that stage. And I feel good here. I’ve found my way and I don’t need to get in the way of it again. I want to win for the Newcastle fans. I’ll get my first chance at Wembley soon.”
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