Journalist confirms Arsenal want to sign ‘world-class’ Premier League star | OneFootball

Arsenal Transfer Plans: Sandro Tonali ‘Very Likely’ Summer Target

Arsenal’s recruitment team appear to be laying the groundwork for another ambitious summer, with Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali emerging as a prominent name on their shortlist. Reporting originally by Steve Kay for Football Transfers indicates the Gunners are “very likely” to revisit their interest once the window reopens, a move that would underline the club’s intent to strengthen an already evolving midfield unit.

Midfield Reinforcement on Arteta’s Agenda

Arsenal explored the market late in January following Mikel Merino’s injury, and Tonali featured among the options considered. While discussions did not develop into formal talks at the time, the Italy international has remained firmly on the club’s radar. This suggests the decision was less about reluctance and more about timing, squad priorities, and Newcastle’s resistance mid season.

Mikel Arteta has already overseen significant additions in the middle of the pitch over the past year, bringing in Martin Zubimendi, Christian Norgaard and Eberechi Eze. Even so, the appetite for another high calibre operator reflects a desire for depth, durability and tactical flexibility across multiple competitions.

Competition for ‘World-Class’ Italy International

Interest in Tonali is not exclusive to north London. Manchester City and Chelsea are also credited with monitoring the situation, yet the player reportedly views Arsenal as his preferred destination. The ‘world-class’ 25-year-old Italy international has been a dependable presence under Eddie Howe, featuring in all 25 of Newcastle’s Premier League fixtures this season with 22 starts.

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Such availability and consistency hold significant value for a side targeting major honours. Arsenal’s model under Arteta places emphasis on technical security, positional intelligence and relentless work rate. Tonali’s profile aligns neatly with those demands, particularly his capacity to operate across multiple midfield roles.

Newcastle’s Position Ahead of Summer Window

Any potential deal would depend heavily on Newcastle’s stance. There is an expectation their position could soften after the season, especially given recent high profile outgoings. Alexander Isak’s departure to Liverpool for a British record £125m last September demonstrated the club’s willingness to sanction major sales under the right financial conditions.

If Newcastle were to consider another significant exit, negotiations would still be complex. Tonali remains central to Howe’s plans and is performing at a consistently high level. Arsenal would likely need to present a compelling financial package and a clear sporting pathway to secure agreement.

From Arsenal’s perspective, the continued monitoring signals proactive planning rather than reactive recruitment. With Champions League football a recurring objective, adding proven Premier League quality in midfield could prove decisive across a long campaign.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From an Arsenal supporter’s standpoint, the prospect of signing Tonali feels both ambitious and logical. The current midfield group has improved markedly, yet the demands of competing across the Premier League and Europe require relentless quality and rotation. A player described as ‘world-class’ who has started 22 league matches for Newcastle would immediately raise standards.

There is also a sense that Arsenal are building a squad capable of sustaining title challenges over multiple seasons, rather than peaking briefly. Tonali’s durability and tactical awareness would offer balance alongside Zubimendi’s control and Rice’s authority. Supporters have long called for depth that does not dilute performance levels, and this type of addition answers that concern.

Financially, any deal would be substantial, but recent windows have shown the club are willing to invest when the right profile becomes available. If the player truly prefers Arsenal, that leverage could be crucial in negotiations.

Ultimately, this is the calibre of move that signals belief in the project. Bringing in a proven Premier League performer entering his prime would energise the fan base and reinforce the sense that Arsenal are positioning themselves to convert near misses into silverware. A midfield anchored by Tonali has the look of a unit built for decisive moments.