Eddie Howe breaks silence on Sandro Tonali after Liverpool urged to sign player

Newcastle boss Eddie Howe has addressed speculation linking superstar midfielder Sandro Tonali with Arsenal on transfer deadline day amid Mikel Merino's injury

Eddie Howe has spoken about Sandro Tonali(Image: Getty Images)

Eddie Howe has finally spoken out about the rumors linking Sandro Tonali to Arsenal on deadline day.

The Gunners were anticipated to be on the hunt for a last-minute replacement for the injured Mikel Merino, as the Spaniard is set to undergo foot surgery and is likely to be out of action until later in the season. Arsenal wasn't the only team being linked with Tonali. Former Liverpool winger Jermaine Pennant urged the Reds to swoop for the Italian midfielder after hearing about Arsenal's interest, slapping a $109 million price tag on him.

Despite efforts from Mikel Arteta and Andrea Berta, they were unable to secure any additional cover, but several names were linked with a move to the Emirates on Monday.

One name that piqued the interest of soccer enthusiasts was Newcastle's stalwart, Tonali.

The Magpies' midfielder has made quite an impression at St James' Park, clocking up 92 appearances under Howe across all competitions. Consequently, a number of clubs are believed to have taken a keen interest in the 25-year-old, with Arsenal reportedly considering Tonali as the January window was closing.

However, these plans were swiftly dismissed as Newcastle labelled the reports as "nonsense."

Sandro Tonali was linked with a move to Arsenal on Monday(Image: Getty Images)

Tonali's agent, Giuseppe Riso, also denied claims that Tonali was offered to Arsenal. He firmly stated: "We never had any conversation with Arsenal.

"Newcastle were never gonna let Tonali leave in January. There's absolutely nothing into it. We didn't even talk about it."

As he prepares for Newcastle's Carabao Cup semifinal second leg against Manchester City – where Tonali is anticipated to play – Howe also commented on Tonali's circumstances.

Speaking during his press conference on Tuesday, the head coach said: "There was no intention from our side to lose Sandro at all.

"He is very happy here, loves playing for Newcastle, and loves the city. Sandro is absolutely fine. I had discussions with him yesterday. His focus is on the here and now and with us. There is no issue with Sandro himself. He is happy and committed."

When questioned whether the Tonali speculation could mirror the dramatic Alexander Isak to Liverpool saga from the summer, the 48-year-old responded: "I don't think so, but lots of things happen without my knowledge.

"As far as I am aware, we have an outstanding footballer and outstanding person, and he has a great relationship with me and his teammates, seems really happy in himself, and that would be a surprise to me.

"Our best players will always be attracting glances from other clubs, that is just the reality of football. We want to keep the group together, keep being progressive, and, of course, Sandro plays a part in that. All encompassed, I don't see an issue, but I am not in control of everything."