'We will see': Sandro Tonali's agent discusses Arsenal 'opportunity' as Mikel Arteta reveals transfer update

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·2 February 2026

'We will see': Sandro Tonali's agent discusses Arsenal 'opportunity' as Mikel Arteta reveals transfer update

Giuseppe Riso opens up on reports linking the Newcastle midfielder with a Deadline Day transfer to Arsenal

The agent of Sandro Tonali has revealed Newcastle were never going to entertain the idea of letting the midfielder leave amid shock links to Arsenal.

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On the morning of transfer Deadline Day, reports in Germany claimed Arsenal were considering a move for the Italy international after losing Mikel Merino to injury.

However, Newcastle quickly moved to dismiss those reports, with the Telegraph describing the Gunners’ apparent interest in Tonali as “complete rubbish”.

With that said, the Athletic have reported that Tonali was offered to Arsenal by an agent which saw the club explore a deal, though, crucially, no contact was made with Newcastle and it’s clear that the 25-year-old will be staying put.

However, the midfielder’s agent, Giuseppe Riso, has insisted there was never any talks with the Gunners.

“Newcastle won't let Sandro leave in January,” Riso told Sky Sport in Italy. “We haven't spoken to Arsenal about this opportunity.

“Juventus? This isn't the time to talk about it."

Riso went on to add that March could be a key month with regards to determining Tonali’s valuation ahead of a potential summer move - but only on the condition that Newcastle have a change of heart.

“It’s not even being discussed now,” Riso said.“ We will see around March about Sandro’s valuation but only if Newcastle decide to open doors.

“He’s completely focused on Newcastle’s season now, it’s a nonsense topic.”

Staying put: Sandro Tonali

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Despite this, Mikel Arteta says Arsenal are open to a late swoop on Deadline Day should the right opportunity emerge to find a replacement for the injured Merino.

“Of course. When you lose a big player like this in the squad, with four months to go and other competitions to play for, you need to look,” Arteta told reporters.

“We need to do everything that we possibly can to see if we have a player that is available. If we don't, OK, we keep what we have.

"At this level, especially for four months, you have to bring a player who has the capacity to adapt immediately and impact the team. That’s not easy but if it was easy we wouldn’t be here. We need to find solutions and try.”