Mikel Arteta's 'plan in mind for Sandro Tonali' could spell bad news for Arsenal star

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is reportedly a huge admirer of Newcastle and Italy midfielder Sandro Tonali, and the Gunners' interest emerged on transfer deadline day

Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta is reportedly a big fan of Sandro Tonali, but a move for him could ultimately spell bad news for Martin Zubimendi. The Italian was unexpectedly linked with a last-minute switch to Arsenal on deadline day.

Reports emerged on Monday suggesting that the Gunners were contemplating a move for Tonali. Sky Germany hinted at discussions about a potential transfer to Arsenal ahead of Monday's 7pm deadline, but no deal came to fruition.

The speculated interest arose after an injury to Spanish international Mikel Merino, who requires foot surgery.

However, prising one of Newcastle's key players away always seemed unlikely, and the Magpies swiftly dismissed any talk of the 25-year-old leaving, labelling the rumours as "complete rubbish".

Tonali's agent, Giuseppe Riso, also confirmed later in the day that there had been no discussions with Arsenal. He stated: "Newcastle were never gonna let Tonali leave in January.

"There's absolutely nothing into it. We didn't even talk about it."

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However, a potential summer transfer isn't off the table, and The Sun suggests that Arteta is a keen admirer. It's reported that the Spaniard would relish the chance to pair him with Declan Rice in midfield and bring him to his north London squad.

However, this could spell trouble for recent recruit Zubimendi, as it's unlikely that Arsenal would deploy all three in the midfield for the majority of matches.

While Arsenal appear interested in the player, they may also face stiff competition for his signature. The same report suggests Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is an admirer, although his future at the Etihad beyond this summer is up in the air. Chelsea are said to be keeping tabs on the situation as well.

Tonali signed a five-year contract following his £55m move from AC Milan in July 2023. However, he was handed a 10-month suspension by the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) in October that year for breaching betting rules.

While serving his ban, the Italy international agreed to extend his contract, which now runs until 2029. Newcastle has the option to extend it for another year through to 2030.

Tonali hasn't given any hints about his future plans, but he has previously mentioned the possibility of returning to Milan. In early 2025, he dismissed rumours of a potential transfer to Juventus and insisted he wasn't seeking a move, despite acknowledging he had unfinished business at the San Siro.

He stated: "I've grown, discovered a new country, a new style of football and a new language. I have no regrets. The idea of returning to Milan one day is there but it's not the first thing on my mind when I wake up in the morning.

"I've grown, discovered a new country, a new style of football and a new language. I have no regrets. The idea of returning to Milan one day is there but it's not the first thing on my mind when I wake up in the morning.

"My agents and I have never even talked about it [Juventus interest]. And I know from experience that if you don't reach that stage, there's nothing concrete. Besides, I feel good here. I've found my path and there's no need to disrupt it again. I want to win for Newcastle fans; soon, we'll have our first chance at Wembley."