Arsenal line up deadline day swoop for Newcastle star Paul Merson said is ‘different class’
Arsenal are exploring a shock move to sign Newcastle star Sandro Tonali ahead of tonight’s transfer deadline.
Tonali has been a key player for Newcastle for several seasons now since a big-money move to Tyneside from AC Milan in 2023.
The 25-year-old featured 45 times last term as the Magpies finished fifth in the top-flight, and has continued to be an important player this season, with four assists in 35 appearances so far.
Surprise reports recently emerged that Tonali had secretly signed a new Newcastle contract until 2029 last year due to the club’s support of him during his ban for breaching gambling laws.
Football Insider revealed last month that Chelsea were eyeing a move for Tonali to bolster their midfield ranks, but their London rivals Arsenal are now the ones pursuing a deal.
Newcastle have rejected Arsenal’s first approach for Tonali
Gunners legend Merson has previously praised Tonali as “different class“, with Newcastle understandably reluctant to lose him midway through the season and this late in the window.
Sky Sport reporter Florian Plettenberg has claimed that Arsenal are exploring a surprise Deadline Day move for Tonali, but negotiations are proving “very difficult” and the Magpies have rejected an initial approach.
Newcastle dismiss talk of Arsenal approach for Tonali
Newcastle are in no position to lose a player of Tonali’s importance at this stage of the transfer window, and Arsenal will know that they are set to demand an astronomical figure to even consider a sale.
The Gunners’ reported interest likely comes following news of midfielder Mikel Merino’s long-term injury, as he faces several months on the sidelines with a broken foot.
Contrasting claims have emerged out of the North East, however, with The Chronicle’s Lee Ryder stating that Newcastle insiders have “instantly dismissed” any suggestions of Tonali being subject of an approach from Arsenal.
The Italy international’s contract at St James’ Park runs for another three-and-a-half years, but he did recently admit that he is dealing with his future on a season-by-season basis, so a move away could well be on the horizon this summer.