Tonali's Agent Drops Bombshell: Arsenal Transfer Chaos Intensifies as Newcastle Secrets Revealed
The representative of Newcastle United's midfielder Sandro Tonali has confirmed that discussions regarding the Italian's future will occur at season's end, following the Magpies' refusal to consider a January move to Arsenal.
Tonali emerged as an unexpected Arsenal target on Transfer Deadline Day as cover for the sidelined Mikel Merino. Reports subsequently suggested that Tonali's representative, Giuseppe Riso, orchestrated the media speculation—allegations that were quickly refuted.
However, Riso has now used an opportunity to fuel further speculation about Tonali's situation in a conversation with Tuttosport, where the agent was directly questioned about Arsenal's pursuit.
"Newcastle finds it difficult to part with Sandro, and his ambition is to guide the club to Champions League qualification," he stated.
"Such transfer conversations will happen at a later stage. We'll assess how the campaign concludes before making any decisions."
Could Sandro Tonali Join Arsenal?
Could Sandro Tonali Join Arsenal?
What appears evident from recent developments is that Arsenal's January pursuit of Tonali might have been exaggerated, though the North London club is reportedly among those monitoring Tonali's circumstances.
With two years remaining on his Newcastle deal after this season, the upcoming summer represents a pivotal period for the 25-year-old, whose destiny may depend on Newcastle's European qualification hopes. Tonali desires Champions League participation and possesses the quality to compete at that level.
Given Newcastle's current position in Premier League mediocrity, the stark truth is that the Magpies might struggle to offer Champions League football to Tonali beyond this campaign. Multiple other interested parties—The Times reports Chelsea, Manchester City and Juventus are also monitoring—anticipate competing in Europe's premier tournament next term.
An Arsenal transfer remains realistic, though the Gunners possess depth in midfield and seemingly don't require another costly acquisition. Some of his admirers might make more determined approaches when the season concludes.
"There's no favored destination currently," Riso commented regarding Tonali's potential next club. "It remains premature. Our current stance may change tomorrow.
"Newcastle wouldn't release him now, and a move wasn't worthwhile, particularly given Sandro's strong connection to the club. We'll assess the situation in summer and determine our course of action."