Bad news for Newcastle as Tonali agent gives fresh interview after Arsenal talks

Tom Weber
Tom Weber
  • Updated: 6 Feb 2026 18:57 GMT
  • 4 min read
Sandro Tonali
© IMAGO

Sandro Tonali's agent has hinted that the midfielder's Newcastle future will be determined by Champions League qualification amid interest from Arsenal.

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The Italy international hit the headlines on Deadline Day when it was revealed that he had been offered to Arsenal. The Gunners were in the market for a new midfielder after Mikel Merino sustained a long-term foot injury, and Tonali sensed an opportunity for a big move.

FootballTransfers understands that it was the player who urged his representatives to engage in discussions with Arsenal, who are long-term admirers and remain interested in a summer deal.

Current ETV
Player image Sandro Tonali
Sandro Tonali

DM, M (C)

Newcastle logo

Newcastle

Sandro Tonali
Sandro Tonali

DM, M (C)

Newcastle

Newcastle

€59M

ETV Range

€53.1M - €64.9M

After the news broke on Monday, Tonali's agent Beppe Riso dismissed suggestions that he had spoken to Arsenal, but transfer insider David Ornstein doubled down on his reporting by revealing that it is unclear how many people actually represent the player.

Be that as it may, Riso has now given a fresh interview in which he yet again made no secret of the fact that Tonali will be considering his future in the summer transfer window.

Tonali could leave Newcastle

Speaking to Tuttosport, Riso hinted that Tonali's future at Newcastle could be determined by Champions League qualification. Achieving this via the Premier League will prove difficult as the Magpies are currently seven points off fifth.

"Newcastle are having a hard time letting go of Sandro, and he wants to lead the club to the Champions League," Riso said. "These transfer discussions will take place later. We’ll see how the season ends, and then we’ll decide what to do."

Sandro Tonali
© IMAGO - Sandro Tonali

"There’s no preference at the moment," he insisted. "It’s still early. What we’re saying today won’t apply tomorrow. Newcastle couldn’t let him go now, and there’s no point in moving, especially since Sandro is very attached to the club. We’ll evaluate and decide what to do in the summer."

In addition to Arsenal, Juventus also hold a strong interest in Tonali. The former AC Milan star is regarded as a dream target for the Old Lady. He is under contract at Newcastle until 2029, with the option for a further year, after signing a secret extension during his gambling ban.

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