Eddie Howe has spoken about Sandro Tonali’s transfer links to Arsenal for the first time since the deadline day drama.
Tonali was linked to Arsenal on deadline day in response to Mikel Merino’s injury.
Mikel Arteta was open about the need to replace Merino, with Tonali regarded as one option to do so.
Newcastle showed no interest in selling Tonali to Arsenal, and with that, the door closed on a possible move, with Eddie Howe now sharing what happened behind the scenes.
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Eddie Howe reacts to Sandro Tonali to Arsenal transfer link
Like most transfer sagas, it became apparent that Arsenal were never even merely close to landing Tonali on deadline day.
That doesn’t mean to say that the rumours did not impact Newcastle, as Howe just revealed in a press conference.
“There was no intention from our side to lose Sandro at all. I think he’s such an integral player to what we’re doing. I think he’s very happy here, he loves playing for Newcastle and representing the city,” Howe said.
The Newcastle manager then explained what was said between himself and his player with regard to the transfer links.
“Sandro is absolutely fine,” Howe assured.
“I had discussions with Sandro yesterday and he’s focused on the here, the now, focused on playing for us. There’s absolutely no issue with Sandro himself.”
Newcastle will naturally have some anxiety when it comes to their best players attracting transfer interest, as losing Alexander Isak in the summer was a devastating shock and a real blow.
Eddie Howe is wary of transfer discussion unsettling Tonali
For now, Tonali is settled at Newcastle, but Howe couldn’t be sure about what’s to come for the midfielder further down the line.
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A reporter asked the Englishman whether there is any concern about how the transfer links to Arsenal could unsettle Tonali, given the ugly situation with Isak in the summer.
“I don’t think so, but lots of things happen without my knowledge,” Howe explained.
“As far as I’m aware, we’ve got a player who is an outstanding player and person, he’s very happy here, he’s got a great relationship with me and his teammates so that would surprise me, but you know, I think he’s always going to be attracting interest from other clubs, that’s just the reality of football.”
Arsenal have been admirers of Tonali for some time, and could be tempted to look at the 25-year-old again in the summer, which will really test the Italian’s desire to stay at St James’ Park.
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