Sandro Tonali ‘committed’ to Newcastle following Arsenal transfer rumours

Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe insists that Sandro Tonali is “committed” to the club after he was linked with a move to Arsenal on Transfer Deadline Day.

The Gunners were searching a midfielder on the final day of the winter window after Mikel Merino sustained a bone injury in his foot. The Spain international will require surgery and could spend a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

It was reported, however, that Arsenal did not approach or make an offer to the Magpies for Tonali. The deadline came and went without the north London outfit signing a new midfielder.

Sandro Tonali ‘committed’ to Newcastle following Arsenal transfer rumours

Asked if Tonali would be unsettled by the transfer talk, Howe responded: “I don’t think so, but lots of things happen without my knowledge.

“As far as I’m aware, we’ve got a player who is an outstanding footballer, an outstanding person. He’s very happy here, he’s got a great relationship with me, his teammates, and seems really happy within himself.

“That would surprise me [if Tonali became unsettled], but our best players will always attract glances from other clubs – that’s just the reality of football.

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“We want to keep our group together, we want to be progressive and Sandro plays a part in that. All encompassed, I don’t see an issue but I don’t control everything.

“There was certainly no intention from our side to lose Sandro at all. He’s such an integral player to what we’re doing. He’s very happy here.

“He is absolutely fine. I had discussions with him yesterday [Monday] and he is absolutely focused on playing for us.

“His only focus is Man City and trying to win that game. There’s absolutely no issue with Sandro himself and he’s committed.”

Howe was speaking at his pre-match press conference ahead of Wednesday’s League Cup clash with Manchester City. Newcastle are looking to overturn a 2-0 deficit from the semi-final first leg.

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