A Premier League club are attempting to launch a shock move to sign Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali, it has been reported.
Tonali signed for Newcastle from Italian giants AC Milan in the summer of 2023.
After serving a ban for betting-related offences in 2024, he has become a near indispensable member of Eddie Howe's starting XI.
He is under contract at St James' Park until 2029, with Newcastle holding a 12-month extension to keep him until 2030.
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Speculation surrounding his future for much of January was connected with a potential return to Italy, with Juventus reported to be keen.
But according to Sky Sports Germany's Florian Plettenberg, the Italy international is attracting interest from Premier League leaders Arsenal in what would be a hugely surprising winter deadline day move.
"I have been told, from very, very top sources that Arsenal are exploring a surprising deadline day move for Sandro Tonali from Newcastle," Plettenberg said on Sky Sports News.
"There have been direct talks in the last couple of hours. But for now, very, very difficult to finalise, because Newcastle didn't give the green light.
"But Arsenal is still trying, they are pushing for Sandro Tonali to make the move happen today."
The idea of Newcastle accepting a bid for one of their key players on deadline day would appear to be far-fetched, even despite Arsenal's interest.
Chronicle Live's Lee Ryder has reported that, internally, Newcastle have 'instantly dismissed' any suggestions that Tonali will leave on deadline day, and that Arsenal are yet to make contact in any case.
Elsewhere, the Gunners have been linked with a move for Elche midfielder Rodrigo Mendoza, with The Telegraph claiming in November that the Spaniard was a target for the summer but a move could be brought forward.
Arsenal are turning to the transfer market after Mikel Merino suffered a serious foot injury which is expected to keep him out for an 'extended period'.
An Arsenal club statement read: "Further to sustaining a foot injury towards the end of our game against Manchester United on January 25, subsequent assessments and specialist reviews have confirmed Mikel Merino has a bone injury in his right foot.
"Mikel will have surgery in the coming days and will then begin his recovery and rehabilitation programme.
"Mikel is expected to be out of action for an extended period, with the aim of returning to full training before the end of the season."
Topics: Sandro Tonali, Newcastle United, Premier League, Football
Ryan Smart