Arsenal in talks over shock Deadline Day move for Sandro Tonali

Cameron Smith

2 Feb 2026 09:06 GMT
4 min read

Arsenal are reportedly exploring a shock Transfer Deadline Day move for Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali following a serious foot injury to Mikel Merino.

Article continues under the video

The Gunners are yet to make their first signing of the winter window, but they are now chasing a last-minute deal for Tonali, who has excelled since arriving at Newcastle from AC Milan in 2023.

Current ETV

Sandro Tonali

DM, M (C)

Newcastle

Sandro Tonali

DM, M (C)

Newcastle

ETV Range

€58.7M - €71.8M

That is according to Sky Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg, who told Sky Sports News: “I have been told from top sources that Arsenal are exploring a surprising Deadline Day move for Sandro Tonali from Newcastle.

“There have been direct talks in the last couple of hours, but for now it’s very, very difficult to finalise because Newcastle haven’t given the green light.

“Arsenal are still trying, they are pushing for Tonali and they are trying to make the deal happen today.”

Sandro Tonali to Newcastle?

Tonali has made 35 appearances across all competitions for Newcastle so far this season and he recently penned a one-year contract extension at St James’ Park until 2029, as per Sky Sports.

However, the Italy international is reportedly on Arsenal’s radar as Mikel Arteta’s side look to react to Merino’s recent injury.

The Spaniard is set for an extended period on the sidelines after suffering a foot injury during the defeat to Manchester United last week, and he is set to undergo surgery this week. He is expected to be back before the end of the season, however he will miss several months of action, with Arsenal also without Ethan Nwaneri after sending the youngster on loan to Olympique Marseille earlier this window.

Tonali joined Newcastle for a fee of €58.9 million in 2023 and his Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) now stands at €65.3m as a result of his imperious form under Eddie Howe over the past year.

Football transfer news headlines today

Transfer Deadline Day LIVE! Every rumour, update and done deal across Europe

Deadline Day: Every official confirmed transfer around Europe

Premier League January transfers 2026: All the Done Deals

The FootballTransfers app

Check out FootballTransfers' new app for all of football's big storylines, transfer rumours and exclusive news in one convenient place directly on your mobile device.

The FootballTransfers app is available on Google Play and in the Apple App Store. Download here:

•Google Play

•App Store