Sandro Tonali to Arsenal transfer drama addressed by Eddie Howe after deadline day talk

Eddie Howe has spoken about Sandro Tonali's deadline day links to Mikel Arteta's title-chasing Arsenal, while clearing up the Newcastle United player's stance on a potential move away

Eddie Howe has addressed Sandro Tonali's rumoured links to Arsenal on deadline day.

The Gunners were anticipated to explore the market for an eleventh-hour swoop as a replacement for the injured Mikel Merino, considering the Spaniard will undergo surgery on his foot and is expected to remain out of action until nearer the end of the season.

While Mikel Arteta and Andrea Berta were eventually unsuccessful in securing anyone regarding cover, several names were associated with a switch to the Emirates Stadium on Monday.

One name that grabbed the attention of football supporters early on was that of Newcastle United dynamo Tonali. The Magpies midfielder has excelled at St James' Park, racking up 92 appearances under Howe across all competitions.

Consequently, numerous clubs are believed to be long-standing admirers of the 25-year-old, with Arsenal thought to be weighing up Tonali as the January window reached its conclusion. However, any schemes were swiftly dismissed, as Newcastle labelled the reports as 'rubbish'.

Tonali's representative, Giuseppe Riso, also denied claims that Tonali was proposed to Arsenal. He maintained: "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 United's Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Manchester City – where Tonali is anticipated to play – Howe also discussed the player's circumstances. During his Tuesday press conference, the manager 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 asked whether the Tonali speculation could mirror the dramatic Alexander Isak to Liverpool saga from the summer, the 48-year-old replied: "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 team-mates, seems really happy in himself and that would be a surprise to me.

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"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."