Reports linking Arsenal with a surprise move for **Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali have been firmly debunked by the player’s agent, who insists there were no talks and no chance of a January exit.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Tonali’s representative **Giuseppe Riso dismissed the speculation as a “nonsense topic,” adding that Newcastle were never going to open the door during the winter window and that his client is fully focused on the Magpies’ season.
What the Agent Actually Said
In the clearest possible denial, Riso explained that:
- No conversations took place with Arsenal
- January was never realistic, because Newcastle would not sell mid-season
- Any valuation talk is only something to revisit later, and only if Newcastle decide to consider offers
That statement effectively ends the idea of an imminent move—at least for this window.
Why Tonali Was Linked With Arsenal in the First Place
The rumour cycle accelerated around deadline day as Arsenal were reportedly monitoring midfield options amid squad fitness concerns and the usual late-window opportunism.
But even as the links gained traction online, multiple reports stressed Newcastle’s stance: Tonali was not for sale in January, making any supposed approach highly unlikely to progress.
Newcastle’s Position: No January Sale, Long-Term Control
From Newcastle’s perspective, it makes sense:
- Tonali is a key part of their midfield planning
- The club holds strong leverage thanks to his long-term contract situation that has been widely reported
So even if a big Premier League club admires him, Newcastle can simply refuse to negotiate unless they choose otherwise.
“One to Watch” in Summer: Juventus and Premier League Clubs Lurking
While Arsenal links have been dismissed, Riso’s comments leave the door slightly open for summer — but only if Newcastle “open doors” later in the season.
That’s where Juventus enter the conversation. Tonali has long been associated with interest from Italy, and the latest reporting suggests Juventus remain attentive to his situation heading toward the next window.
Bottom Line
For now, the story is simple:
Tonali to Arsenal is not happening — and there were no talks. The player is focused on Newcastle’s season, and any future discussion is a summer matter only if Newcastle decide to listen.