How Howe Quieted Arsenal Links: Tonali’s Focus at Newcastle

Tonali and Arsenal links under the microscope

Eddie Howe, head coach of Newcastle United, has stated that Sandro Tonali is "very happy" to be with the Magpies, firmly dismissing reports that he could move to Arsenal. The recent transfer window chatter had suggested Arsenal were weighing a move for the Italian midfielder, but Newcastle has reiterated that the player is not for sale and that there have been no outreach attempts.

Giuseppe Risso, Tonali’s agent, rejected discussions with Arsenal when asked, adding that any financial evaluation of the player would take place in March or April should Newcastle open the door to such a possibility.

Howe noted that he spoke with Tonali last Monday, emphasizing that the midfielder is fully focused on the present moment and on helping the team, especially as Newcastle prepare for the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Manchester City.

"His focus has been on the Manchester City game and trying to win," Howe said. "There is no problem with Sandro himself at all. He is in a great place mentally and physically."

In the broader context, Tonali had previously voiced happiness at Newcastle in November, despite acknowledging the difficulty of long-term planning after joining from Milan on a five-year contract in 2023. Howe reiterated that the best players will always attract interest, but the club intends to keep its core together and continue evolving, with Tonali contributing toward reaching his peak while helping the team stay competitive.

Howe closed by stressing the squad’s unity and the importance of developing with a cohesive group, rather than letting external noise derail focus. The message was clear: the leadership believes in the current project and in Sandro’s role within it.

Punchline time: Tonali’s focus is so sharp that even transfer rumors need to wear sunglasses. And if football gossip were a sport, Arsenal would be chasing headlines while Newcastle plays the actual game.