Softfootball understands that Sandro Tonali’s agent, Giuseppe Riso, has firmly dismissed rumours linking the Newcastle United midfielder with a January move to Arsenal.
Following a recent report that Tonali remains key to Newcastle’s plan, as reported by Fabrizio Romano today via his official X account, Riso described the speculation as baseless.
He said:
Sandro Tonali’s agent Giuseppe Riso: We never had any conversation with Arsenal. Newcastle were never going to let Tonali leave in January. There’s absolutely nothing into it. We didn’t even talk about it.
Earlier reports had suggested that Tonali’s camp might have offered the player to Arsenal as a potential short-term fix following Mikel Merino’s foot injury.
However, Riso’s comments confirm that no formal or informal discussions took place, and Newcastle themselves maintained a firm stance, with no contact between the clubs.
Arsenal, meanwhile, were exploring midfield reinforcements after Merino was sidelined for an extended period due to surgery.
Tonali, who recently cleared the air about his future at Newcastle United, remains contracted to Newcastle until 2029, a deal that was even extended during his 10-month ban for breaching gambling rules. The club sees him as a central figure in their long-term project, especially with Champions League football in mind.
While Tonali has expressed general satisfaction at St James’ Park, he’s remained non-committal about his long-term future, stating last November that he wants to think about taking the next step with caution, year on year. Riso hinted that a reassessment of Tonali’s valuation could happen around March.
He said:
It’s not even being discussed now. We will see around March about Sandro’s valuation, but only if Newcastle decide to open doors. He’s completely focused on the #NUFC season now.
Tonali’s future remains firmly tied to Newcastle, with his focus entirely on the current season and no transfer talks on the horizon.
