Arsenal weighing up audacious move for Sandro Tonali

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, though Newcastle have rejected an early approach, making a deal highly unlikely at this stage.

Mikel Merino’s serious foot injury has forced Arsenal to reconsider their earlier stance of having a quiet winter window, with the Spaniard set for surgery after fracturing his right foot, a setback that will sideline him for several months.

With Ethan Nwaneri recently heading to Olympique Marseille on loan, Arsenal are short of central midfield options, which explains their interest in Tonali.

Since arriving from AC Milan in 2023, Tonali has become a key figure for the Magpies, 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 virtually impossible they would sanction Tonali’s departure—especially at this late stage of the window.

With less than 24 hours left before the window shuts, whether Arsenal go after other targets when they inevitably miss out on Tonali remains to be seen.

Either way, Mikel Arteta will have full confidence in his current squad’s ability to compete on all fronts.

Arsenal currently sit six points clear 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 EFL Cup final and will set out to complete the job in Tuesday’s semi-final second leg against Chelsea.