Transfer expert Florian Plettenberg says Arsenal are looking into a late move for Sandro Tonali. They want to grab the Newcastle United anchor before the winter window shuts tonight. The North London club are desperate for help in the middle of the pitch. The nasty foot injury to Mikel Merino recently put him out of action until at least May.
Arsenal Push for Tonali Amid Midfield Crisis
The Gunners make an early move to see if a deal is possible. Newcastle shut them down fast, though. They have no interest in letting their star man leave St James’ Park right now. This news shows just how quickly Mikel Arteta’s plans have changed with the 11 pm deadline looming.
Deadline Battle for the Italian
Getting the 25-year-old Italy international won’t be easy. Newcastle see the former AC Milan star as the core of their future. Since his contract runs all the way to June 2029, the Tyneside club holds all the cards. Reports suggest they want a massive fee, of around £100 million, to even pick up the phone.
🚨💣 EXCLUSIVE | Arsenal are exploring a surprising Deadline Day move for Sandro #Tonali.
Very difficult at this stage, as Newcastle have rejected an initial approach.@SkySportDE 🇮🇹 pic.twitter.com/13lSEw5pmK
— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) February 2, 2026
Tonali is a rare talent who can win the ball back aggressively and keep it under pressure. He would be a huge boost for Arsenal as they fight for their first league title in twenty years. He plays like a classic deep playmaker, but he has the engine to handle the Premier League’s speed.
If the Gunners actually pull this off, they get a player who can sit in front of the defence alone or partner with Declan Rice. That duo would be almost impossible to break through. Eddie Howe wants to keep his squad together for a European run, but a huge profit might eventually change the conversation.
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A deal looks unlikely tonight unless Arsenal drop a record-breaking bid. Newcastle would need an offer they simply can’t turn down. This move shows Arteta is serious. He wants a world-class replacement for Merino, not just a temporary fix. The next few hours will determine if the league leaders can talk the Magpies into selling their prize Italian midfielder.
