Eddie Howe Plays Down Arsenal Links, Insists Sandro Tonali Is Happy At Newcastle
Newcastle United’s Howe Addresses Tonali Transfer Speculation
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has sought to quell rumors regarding midfielder Sandro Tonali’s potential transfer to Arsenal. Howe asserts that Tonali is committed to the club and content with his current situation.
Speculation arose on transfer deadline day, suggesting that Arsenal, the Premier League leaders, were interested in acquiring the Italian midfielder. Newcastle promptly refuted these claims, stating that Tonali is not for sale and that there has been no direct communication with Arsenal.
Giuseppe Riso, Tonali’s agent, also denied any discussions with the North London club. However, he indicated to Sky Italia that conversations about the player’s valuation could resume later in the year. “That’s something we will do in March or April if Newcastle are open to it,” Riso stated.
Howe disclosed that he spoke with Tonali on Monday and emphasized the midfielder’s focus as Newcastle prepares for a crucial Carabao Cup semi-final 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 remarked.
The manager added that he finds it challenging to comment on matters about which he lacks information, stating, “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.”
In November, Tonali expressed his satisfaction with life at Newcastle, while acknowledging the difficulty of planning for the future. The former AC Milan player joined Newcastle in 2023 on a five-year contract and later signed a one-year extension, in recognition of the club’s support during a 10-month betting ban that kept him out of competitive play.
Newcastle maintains an option to extend Tonali’s contract until 2030, positioning the club favorably should interest from other teams escalate.
While Newcastle experienced the loss of Alexander Isak to Liverpool last summer, Howe believes the club is now better prepared to navigate transfer speculation following the recent appointment of sporting director Ross Wilson. “Our best players are always going to attract glances from other clubs,” Howe noted.
