Arsenal weighing up audacious move for Sandro Tonali | OneFootball

Arsenal are plotting a sensational last-minute move for Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali, according to Sky Germany.

The Gunners have held initial talks for the Italian star. However, Newcastle have rejected an early approach, making a deal highly improbable.

Mikel Merino’s injury has forced Arsenal to reconsider their earlier stance of having a quiet winter transfer window.

The Spaniard will undergo surgery after fracturing his right foot, a setback that will sideline him for several months.

With Ethan Nwaneri recently heading to Ligue 1 outfit Olympique Marseille on loan, Arsenal are short of centre-midfield options.

Tonali has become a key figure for the Magpies since arriving from AC Milan in 2023, despite a challenging first season marred by a lengthy suspension.

Newcastle are pushing for European qualification next season and are still in the Champions League knockout play-offs, so it seems unlikely they would sanction Tonali’s departure.

Whether Arsenal go after other targets when they inevitably miss out on Tonali is unclear, but Mikel Arteta will have confidence in his current squad’s ability to compete on all fronts.

Arsenal currently sit six points clear of Manchester City at the top of the Premier League after Saturday’s emphatic 4-0 win over Leeds United.

They are also 90 minutes away from reaching the League Cup final and will set out to complete the job in Tuesday’s semi-final second leg against London rivals Chelsea.