Arsenal have opened late talks to sign Sandro Tonali from Newcastle United as the January transfer window enters its final hours, according to reports in Germany.
The move comes after midfielder Mikel Merino suffered a serious foot injury that will rule him out for several weeks, forcing Mikel Arteta to look for urgent midfield cover before the 7pm GMT deadline.
The talks involve Arsenal, Newcastle United, and Sandro Tonali, with discussions taking place on deadline day in the UK.
The situation matters because Arsenal sit at the top end of the Premier League table and risk losing momentum without midfield depth at a crucial stage of the season.
Why is Arsenal targeting Sandro Tonali now?
Arsenal’s interest in Sandro Tonali stems directly from Mikel Merino’s injury setback. The Spain international will undergo surgery on his foot, leaving Arsenal short of senior midfield options during a congested run of league and cup fixtures.
Arteta’s side felt Merino’s absence even in their recent 4–0 win over Leeds United, where rotation options were limited despite the comfortable scoreline.
With a title race tightening, Arsenal want a midfielder who can step straight into Premier League football. Tonali, who already has experience in English football, fits that profile.
“Arsenal are in direct talks regarding Sandro Tonali. A deal is difficult, but discussions are ongoing,” Florian Plettenberg, Sky Deutschland.
What makes Sandro Tonali such an attractive option?
Sandro Tonali joined Newcastle United from AC Milan in July 2023 for around £55 million, making him one of the club’s most expensive signings. Despite an interrupted spell in England, his quality remains highly rated across Europe.
🚨💣 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
Sandro Tonali – Key Facts (as of January 2026):
- Age: 25
- Nationality: Italian
- Position: Central Midfielder
- Current club: Newcastle United
- Contract: Runs until June 2028, with a one-year option
- Appearances for Newcastle: 91 (all competitions)
Tonali played a role in Newcastle’s Carabao Cup success last season, adding silverware to his Premier League experience. His passing range, tactical discipline, and ability to control tempo suit Arsenal’s possession-based style.
Why is Newcastle reluctant to sell Tonali?
Newcastle does not want to weaken its squad mid-season. The club remains active in domestic competitions and sees Tonali as a long-term project, especially after investing heavily in his signing.
There is also context around Tonali’s availability. He missed most of his debut Premier League season after receiving a 10-month suspension for breaches of football betting regulations, limiting him to eight league appearances last year.
Since returning, Newcastle have focused on reintegrating him into regular football. Selling now would mean losing a player they waited almost a year to fully use.
Can Arsenal realistically complete the deal before 7pm?
Time remains Arsenal’s biggest obstacle. Any deal for Sandro Tonali would require:
- Agreement with Newcastle on a fee
- Player consent
- Premier League and FA paperwork completed before 19:00 GMT
Sources close to the talks suggest Arsenal may explore a loan with an obligation to buy, though Newcastle prefers a permanent deal if they agree to sell at all.
How would Tonali fit into Arsenal’s midfield?
Tonali would likely rotate with or support Arsenal’s existing midfield options, offering:
- Physical presence in central areas
- Experience against top Premier League sides
- Tactical flexibility in both defensive and box-to-box roles
For Arsenal, the move is less about long-term planning and more about protecting their title challenge during a decisive period.
