Mikel Arteta’s private feelings on Sandro Tonali transfer and plan for him at Arsenal
Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali was linked with a move to Arsenal on transfer deadline day, but a move for the Italian failed to materialise, although could be looked at again in the summer
Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta is reportedly a huge admirer of Sandro Tonali amid surprise transfer links with the Newcastle United midfielder. The Italian was suddenly linked with a deadline day switch to the Emirates Stadium.
Reports surfaced on Monday morning indicating that the Gunners were considering an approach for Tonali. Sky Germany suggested that talks had occurred regarding a possible move to Arsenal before Monday’s 7pm deadline – however, a move failed to materialise.
The rumoured interest came following an injury to Spain international Mikel Merino, who needs foot surgery. Nevertheless, extracting one of Newcastle’s top players always seemed improbable, and the Magpies quickly rubbished any suggestion of the 25-year-old’s exit, describing the rumours 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 were never gonna let Tonali leave in January.
“There’s absolutely nothing into it. We didn’t even talk about it.”
But a possible summer move is not off the cards, and The Sun report that Arteta is an avid admirer. It is said that the Spaniard would love to pair him with Declan Rice in the middle of the park and add him to his ranks in north London.
That could spell worrying news for summer signing Martin Zubimendi, though, given Arsenal would be unlikely to field all three in the midfield for most matches.
In addition to Arsenal’s interest, it is reported that the Gunners would face a huge battle to land the star. It is claimed that Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola is another big fan, although the Catalan’s future at the Etihad beyond this summer remains uncertain, while Chelsea are also apparently tracking his situation.
