Newcastle United’s chief executive has revealed he has “no idea” whether Sandro Tonali’s agent offered him to Arsenal on deadline day.
The midfielder was the subject of reports suggesting the Gunners were planning a surprise late move on Monday.
4
There were even rumors that Tonali’s representatives had approached the Premier League leaders about a possible move to north London.
Arsenal had been considering entering the transfer market before the window closed following an injury to Mikel Merino.
The Spaniard is expected to be out until May as his foot injury requires surgery.
However, a move for Tonali did not materialize, meaning the player remained on Tyneside beyond the 7pm deadline.
Newcastle boss on Tonali interest
Magpies CEO David Hopkinson has now responded to the transfer speculation surrounding the 25-year-old.
As he joined Jim White and Alex Crook from St James’ Park live on The Pitch Prospect on Wednesday morning, he was asked if Tonali’s agent had offered him to Arsenal.
In response, Hopkinson stated: “I have no idea. That’s our answer.”
“Eddie got it right, he doesn’t know, I don’t know. Here’s what I know: He’s a superstar player, he’s under contract here.”
“He’s not the only player that other clubs would covet, so if we end up in a situation where people aren’t trying to create chaos in the market to get our players out, then we’ve got a real problem.”
“Sandro was a wonderful player, I have a smile on my face every day when I see him. I think he is happy here and we are definitely happy with him.”
4
What did Eddie Howe say?
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe was asked about Arsenal’s interest in Tonali on Tuesday.
Regarding the rumors ahead of the Carabao Cup duel with Manchester City, he said: “No.” [it’s not a surprise]. There was certainly no intention on our part to lose Sandro.
“He’s such an important player in what we do. He’s very happy here, he plays for Newcastle and loves representing the city.”
As to whether the Italian was unsettled, Howe added: “I don’t think so, but a lot of things happen without my knowledge.”
“As far as I know, we have a player who is an outstanding footballer, an outstanding person.”
“He is very happy here, he has a great relationship with me and his teammates and seems really happy with himself.”
4
“That would surprise me, but our best players will always attract attention from other clubs – that’s just the reality of football.”
“We want to keep our group together, we want to be progressive and Sandro plays a role in that by trying to do his best and help the team.”
“All in all, I don’t see a problem, but I don’t control everything.”
Tonali moved from AC Milan to Newcastle in 2023 for the then Italian record transfer fee of £52 million.
Since then he has played 92 games for the club, scoring seven goals and providing eight assists.
This includes 35 appearances in all competitions so far this season.
4
Tonali was part of the team that won the Carabao Cup last season, ending Newcastle’s 70-year wait for a major domestic trophy.
His current contract runs for two years and does not expire until the summer of 2028.