Transfer drama: Newcastle fires back as Tonali-Arsenal talk heats up
2 February 2026
Transfer drama: Newcastle Responds to Tonali-Arsenal Link
The Magpies end the transfer saga early.
Newcastle United has responded to reports that their Italian star Sandro Tonali could be moving to Arsenal during the current winter window.
According to BBC, a Newcastle source confirmed Tonali is not for sale, and denied any official contact from Arsenal about the deal.
Tonali is contracted with Newcastle through 2029, with an option to extend for another season.
Reports have recently suggested Arsenal would try to push the deal in the closing hours of the window, especially since Mikel Merino has suffered a long-term injury.
Merino picked up an injury in his side's match against Manchester United last Sunday, with the Red Devils winning 3-2 in the 23rd Premier League round.
Arsenal, in a statement on its official site, said that in addition to the foot injury near the end of our match against Manchester United, subsequent evaluations confirmed Merino has a fracture in his right foot.
It added that Merino will undergo surgery in the coming days, then begin a recovery and rehabilitation program.
It is expected that Merino will be out for a long spell to return to full training before the end of the season.
The statement concluded: "Everyone is focused on supporting Merino to ensure his quickest possible return to full fitness."
Punchline 1: If transfer rumors paid the bills, Arsenal would be cashing in big time by now.
Punchline 2: And if patience were a footballer, Newcastle would be the one sprinting to the goal while Arsenal tangles with the clock on social media.
