Arsenal are reportedly considering a surprise last-minute bid for Newcastle United’s midfielder Sandro Tonali.
The Gunners are scrambling for late additions to their midfield following Mikel Merino’s foot injury and have already initiated talks about a potential late swoop for Tonali, according to Sky Sports Germany.
The two Premier League rivals are said to be locked in talks with time running out in the window – but the Magpies may be reluctant to sell the 25-year-old midfielder, who is contracted at the North East side until 2029.
(Image: Serena Taylor, Newcastle United via Getty Images)
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The Italian international has become a key player under Eddie Howe since completing his ban for betting offences. He has been at St James’ Park since his £55m record transfer from AC Milan in the summer of 2023, which made him the most expensive Italian footballer of all time.
However, he missed a large chunk of his debut campaign on Tyneside because of his involvement in a betting scandal in Italy, and has since made 67 top-flight appearances for the Magpies.
(Image: Stuart MacFarlane, Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
Spanish midfielder Merino is expected to be out of action for an extended period after the 29-year-old suffered a foot injury that requires surgery.
An Arsenal statement said: “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.
“Everyone is fully focused on supporting Mikel to ensure he is back to full fitness as soon as possible.”
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