Sandro Tonali Holds Newcastle Talks After Arsenal Transfer Interest On Deadline Day

Sandro Tonali has held talks with Newcastle boss Eddie Howe after being linked to Arsenal.

Sandro Tonali ‘Committed’ To Newcastle Despite Arsenal Links

According to reports, Arsenal moved for Tonali in an ambitious Deadline Day swoop.

But Newcastle insisted he was not for sale and that there had been no contact between the two clubs.

Tonali’s agent, Giuseppe Riso, also denied speaking to the Premier League leaders, but did reveal he would look to discuss the 25-year-old’s future and valuation in ‘March or April’.

Howe addressed the speculation around Tonali on Tuesday, declaring he was ‘committed’ at St James’ Park.

“Sandro’s absolutely fine,” said Howe. “I had discussions with Sandro yesterday.

“He’s absolutely focused on the here, the now, playing for us. His only focus talking to him yesterday was Manchester City and trying to win that game. So there’s absolutely no issue with Sandro himself.

“He’s very happy and he’s committed.”

FootItalia reported in December that Tonali wants to return to Italy in 2026, and Newcastle are growing increasingly concerned that he could move on, potentially as soon as next summer.

The club were adamant they would not sell him this month, despite Tonali admitting in November that it was ‘difficult’ for him to think long-term – an apparent hint that he could leave.

Eddie Howe Expects More Tonali Transfer Interest

Howe looked to allay concerns from supporters that Arsenal’s interest could unsettle Tonali and potentially trigger him to go on strike, as seen with Alexander Isak in his bid to force through a move to Liverpool.

“I don’t think so, but lots of things happen without my knowledge,” Howe added. “As far as I’m aware, we’ve got a player that’s an outstanding footballer, an outstanding person.

“He’s very happy here, he’s got a great relationship with me, his team-mates and he seems really, really happy within himself.

“So, that would surprise me, but I think he’s always going to be attracting, or our best players will always be attracting, glances from other clubs. That’s just the reality of football.

“We want to keep the group together. We want to keep being progressive. And, of course, Sandro plays a part in that, trying to hit his best levels and play as well as he can to help the team.

“So, all encompassed, I don’t see an issue. But, as I say, I’m not in control of everything. There was certainly no intention at all from our side to lose Sandro.”