Eddie Howe responds to Sandro Tonali exit rumours with Arsenal circling

Cameron Smith

Updated: 3 Feb 2026 05:56 CST
3 min read

Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe has insisted that Sandro Tonali is “very happy” at the club amid transfer interest from Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City.

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The Italy international has been an integral player at St James’ Park since returning from a 10-month football ban for betting in 2024, and his form has attracted the attention of several elite Premier League clubs.

The Sun claim that Arsenal, Chelsea and Man City are all keeping tabs on Tonali’s situation at Newcastle, with the former heavily linked with a bombshell deal on Transfer Deadline Day.

Talks with Newcastle never took place, however it has been reported that Tonali was offered to the Gunners by his agent, Giuseppe Riso, following news that Mikel Merino is set for a lengthy period on the treatment table after suffering a serious foot injury.

A deal was never likely to materialise due to Newcastle’s desire to retain the player, but Arsenal have been tipped to rekindle their pursuit of the 25-year-old following the conclusion of the 2025-26 season.

However, Howe is hopeful that Newcastle will reject any advances for Tonali this summer, who could be the subject of bids worth in excess of €116 million (£100m).

Eddie Howe responds to Arsenal’s interest in Sandro Tonali

Speaking to reporters ahead of Newcastle’s Carabao Cup second-leg clash against Man City on Wednesday evening, Howe admitted that he spoke to Tonali on Deadline Day following rumours of Arsenal’s interest in his signature.

“His only focus was on Man City and trying to win that game so there's absolutely no issue with Sandro himself,” the Magpies boss said.

“He's very happy and committed so I find it difficult to talk about things I don't know too much about.

“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.”

Howe added: “Our best players are always going to attract glances from other clubs. That's just the reality of football.

“We want to keep the group together. We want to keep progressing and, of course, Sandro plays a part in that in trying to hit his best levels and play as well as he can to help the team.

“All encompassed, I don't see an issue but I'm not in control of everything.”

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