Arsenal Hasn’t Reached Out to Newcastle About Tonali Transfer

Arsenal will not be signing Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali on Transfer Deadline Day, according to reports.

The Italy international was mentioned as a potential replacement for the injured Mikel Merino.

Merino suffered a foot injury during Arsenal’s 3-2 loss to Manchester United on January 25. The club announced that the 29-year-old requires surgery and will be out for an “extended period.”

Arsenal makes ‘no contact’ with Newcastle United regarding Sandro Tonali

While Tonali was considered as injury cover, The Times reports that “Newcastle insists there has been no contact” about a transfer for the 25-year-old.

Sky Sports News adds that Newcastle “doesn’t expect” to receive an offer for Tonali and “would not welcome” one. His contract runs until 2029, and he is seen as an important part of Eddie Howe’s strategy.

The Independent’s Miguel Delaney states that Arsenal has been “exploring options” but will “probably hold off,” noting that Max Dowman can fill the defensive midfield role. The 16-year-old has made five appearances this season, mainly as an attacking midfielder, and has recently signed a pre-contract agreement with the club.

See Also – January 2011: The story of the greatest Deadline Day ever