Arsenal will reportedly look to sign 25-year-old Italian international Sandro Tonali from Newcastle United before the winter transfer window shuts down.

According to an update by reputed German journalist Florian Plettenberg, Sandro Tonali is the subject of interest from Arsenal. The Gunners are eager to bolster their first-team squad by signing a versatile midfielder before the winter transfer window shuts down after losing Mikel Merino to a foot injury. So, the 25-year-old Newcastle United mainstay has emerged as a target for the North London club.

However, the Premier League table-toppers face frustration in the battle for the Lodi-born midfielder’s signature, as the Magpies have “rejected an initial approach” over a possible deadline-day move. So, Arsenal must look elsewhere for a new midfielder in the final hours of the winter transfer window.

How has Sandro Tonali fared at Newcastle United?

Sandro Tonali has established himself as one of the most reliable midfielders in the Premier League since joining Newcastle United from AC Milan in a deal worth £55 million in July 2023. While the 25-year-old spent several months on the sidelines due to a betting ban, he has been on top of his game whenever he has been fit and available.

Tonali has made nearly 100 appearances thus far for the Tyneside outfit while chipping in with seven goals and eight assists. Meanwhile, the Italian midfielder’s exploits for his club and country have not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of several well-known clubs. Widespread reports have heavily linked Tonali with Juventus, with Luciano Spalletti pushing for a deal. However, Arsenal will aim to secure his services on Monday.

London calling?

Arsenal’s interest in Sandro Tonali may be surprising, but it is surprising. Mikel Arteta has a stacked midfield unit, with Declan Rice being one of the world’s best players. However, Mikel Merino will spend several weeks in the treatment room after breaking his foot.

So, breaking news late on Sunday revealed that Arsenal would explore a last-gasp move for a midfielder in the final hours of the winter transfer window. Tonali has thus emerged as a viable target for the North London club, and they are exploring a late deal for the former AC Milan midfielder.

However, the Newcastle United mainstay may be an inaccessible target for Arsenal, as the Magpies have “rejected an initial approach” over a late deal. Widespread reports have suggested for months that Newcastle United will not entertain offers for the 25-year-old Italian international. So, Arsenal must look elsewhere for a midfielder in the final hours of the winter transfer window.