Eddie Howe has telling response after being asked Alexander Isak question

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has responded to claims of a campaign to push star midfielder Sandro Tonali out following Arsenal transfer speculation on deadline day

Alexander Isak left Eddie Howe's squad for Liverpool last year(Image: Getty Images)

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has addressed speculation suggesting a campaign is underway to push Sandro Tonali out of St. James' Park.

The Italy international was linked with a deadline day switch to Arsenal after reports emerged that the midfielder's name had been presented to the Gunners. Both his agent and the club denied this.

When questioned whether a similar campaign was building to force Tonali's departure, as Alexander Isak attempted with Liverpool, Howe told his press conference: "I don't think so, but lots of things happen without my knowledge. As far as I'm aware, we've got a player that's an outstanding footballer, an outstanding person.

"He's very happy here, he's got a great relationship with me, his teammates, he seems really, really happy within himself, so that would surprise me."

Howe also acknowledged he must remain realistic about his top players, adding: "Our best players will always be attracting glances from other clubs, that's just the reality of football.

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

Isak joined Liverpool last September(Image: Getty Images)

"All-encompassed, I don't see an issue, but as I say, I'm not in control of everything."

Howe revealed that he had a chat with Tonali on deadline day, but the focus was solely on the upcoming Manchester City match in the Carabao Cup.

He stated: "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 quizzed about the origin of the story, Howe admitted it's impossible to trace every detail of each transfer rumor. He added: "If I knew where everything came from, I'd be wiser."

In response to a question about whether the club gleaned significant insights from the Isak incident, Howe said: "Yeah, that's a deep question. Probably a lot, but you know, stuff that's above me, I think.

"Obviously, in the summer, we didn't have a sporting director, which massively impacted our way of working in terms of dealing with agents and dealing with that situation.

"We were in a more vulnerable position than we are now. Obviously, Ross has filled that position and showing really good leadership, dealing with transfers and all the things that that entails.

"So I think we're in a stronger position now to navigate those waters in a much calmer, clearer way."