Sandro Tonali Agent Denies Arsenal Talks as Newcastle Reject Transfer Rumours
Transfer speculation swirled around Sandro Tonali right up until the final moments of the winter transfer window on February 2, 2026.
The Newcastle United midfielder found himself at the center of reports linking him with a surprise move to Arsenal. But his agent has now spoken out clearly, and the Magpies have made their position crystal clear too.
What Sparked the Sandro Tonali to Arsenal Rumours?
Late on deadline day, stories surfaced claiming Arsenal were exploring a move for the 25-year-old Italian international. With Mikel Merino sidelined by a serious foot injury, Mikel Arteta was reportedly looking to add depth and quality to his midfield options quickly.
Some outlets even suggested “direct talks” had taken place between the clubs. Others reported that Tonali’s representatives had proactively offered the player to Arsenal, hoping to secure a switch to a team competing regularly in the Champions League.
The rumours gained traction fast – especially given Tonali’s impressive form since settling at St James’ Park and his previous links to Arsenal during his AC Milan days.
Also Read: Fabrizio Romano Provides Update on Arsenal’s Transfer Interest in Sandro Tonali
Newcastle United Swiftly Shut Down Sandro Tonali to Arsenal Speculation
Newcastle reacted quickly and firmly. Club sources dismissed the reports as “complete rubbish,” insisting no contact had occurred between the two Premier League sides. They made it abundantly clear: Tonali is not for sale this winter window, no matter the offer.
The Tyneside club underlined their stance by pointing to the player’s long-term future at the club. Tonali signed a contract extension during his earlier FIFA betting suspension period, tying him to Newcastle until 2029. That deal gives Eddie Howe and the board a very strong hand in any future discussions.
Sandro Tonali’s Agent Giuseppe Riso Breaks His Silence
As the stories continued to build, Tonali’s agent Giuseppe Riso stepped in to set the record straight. Speaking to Sky Italy, he was unequivocal:
“We never had any conversation with Arsenal.”
Riso also reinforced Newcastle’s position, adding that the club had no intention of letting their star midfielder leave in January. He explained that now – with Newcastle competing in the Champions League – simply isn’t the time to discuss any potential moves.
While he left the door slightly ajar for future evaluations (mentioning a possible look at the situation around March), Riso made it clear nothing was happening this window.
Tonali’s Own Comments on His Newcastle Future
Tonali himself has stayed relatively guarded when asked about the long term. He has spoken positively about life at Newcastle and his happiness working under Eddie Howe. At the same time, he has acknowledged the unpredictable nature of football, saying players must often think “year by year.”
Those remarks have left some fans wondering whether he sees himself staying at St James’ Park for the full length of his contract. For now, though, all parties appear aligned: he remains a vital part of the Magpies’ midfield.
Why the Transfer Links Ultimately Went Nowhere
Several factors combined to kill any possibility of a deal:
- Newcastle’s unwavering refusal to entertain offers in January
- No direct club-to-club contact ever taking place
- The agent’s firm denial of formal talks with Arsenal
- Tonali’s secure long-term contract until 2029
In the end, the late flurry of speculation fizzled out without any real progress. Sandro Tonali stays put at Newcastle United, ready to play his part in Eddie Howe’s ambitious project for the rest of the 2025/26 season and beyond.
Arsenal will now turn their full attention to other midfield targets in the summer window, while Newcastle supporters can breathe easier knowing one of their key players isn’t going anywhere just yet.
What do you think – was this just harmless deadline-day noise, or could we see renewed interest in Tonali when the market reopens?
Also Read: Jamie O’Hara: This Arsenal Team Is So Dull It Will Be Forgotten Even If They Win the League
Sandro Tonali Agent Denies Arsenal Talks as Newcastle Reject Transfer Rumours