Eddie Howe Plays Down Arsenal Links, Insists Sandro Tonali Is Happy At Newcastle

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has moved to calm speculation linking Sandro Tonali with a potential move to Arsenal, insisting the Italian midfielder remains content and fully committed to the club.

Reports on transfer deadline day claimed the Premier League leaders were considering a move for Sandro Tonali. Newcastle quickly dismissed the story, stressing that the player was not for sale and that there had been no contact with Arsenal.

Tonali’s agent, Giuseppe Riso, also denied holding talks with the North London club. However, speaking to Sky Italia, he hinted that any discussion about valuation could be revisited later in the year, saying, “that’s something we will do in March or April if Newcastle are open to it”.

Howe revealed he spoke with Tonali on Monday and was left in no doubt about the midfielder’s focus as Newcastle prepare for Wednesday’s Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Manchester City.

“His only focus was on Manchester City and trying to win that game so there’s absolutely no issue with Sandro himself,” Howe said.

“He’s very happy and committed so I find it difficult to talk about things I don’t know too much about.

“I can only talk about Sandro as the person and player, and his mindset here and now. Having discussed things with him yesterday, he’s absolutely fine.”

Tonali previously addressed his future in November, making it clear he was “happy” at Newcastle, although he admitted it was “difficult” to think too far ahead.

The former AC Milan midfielder joined Newcastle in 2023 on a five-year contract and later signed an additional one-year extension, eager to repay the club’s support during his 10-month betting ban that sidelined him from competitive action.

Newcastle also hold an option to extend his contract until 2030, placing them in a strong negotiating position should interest intensify.

While the club lost Alexander Isak to Liverpool last summer, Howe believes Newcastle are now better equipped to handle transfer speculation following the appointment of sporting director Ross Wilson.

“Our best players are always going to attract glances from other clubs,” he said.