Eddie Howe has broken his silence on speculation that Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali was offered to Arsenal on deadline day.
The Gunners will be without Mikel Merino for a sustained period owing to foot surgery, and this prompted speculation that the Premier League leaders would make a late move for a central midfielder.
And reports on Monday suggested that the north London side would make a late blockbuster move for Magpies star Tonali.
The Italian has featured in all 24 league games this season, starting 21 times, and it would have taken a huge offer to convince Newcastle to sell the 25-year-old on deadline day.
There was 'no intention' to sell Tonali
Tonali’s agent denied claims that he had offered his client to Arsenal, stating: “We never had any conversation with Arsenal. Newcastle were never gonna let Tonali leave in January. There's absolutely nothing to it. We didn't even talk about it.”
Speaking ahead of Wednesday’s EFL Cup game against Manchester City, Howe was asked about Tonali, saying: “There was no intention from our side to lose Sandro at all.
“He is very happy here, loves playing for Newcastle and loves the city. Sandro is absolutely fine. I had discussions with him yesterday. His focus is on the here and now and with us. There is no issue with Sandro himself. He is happy and committed.”
Midfielder 'happy' at Newcastle
When questioned whether speculation surrounding Tonali’s St. James’ Park future could mirror that of Alexander Isak last summer, Howe replied: “I don't think so but lots of things happen without my knowledge.
“As far as I am aware we have an outstanding footballer, an outstanding person and he has a great relationship with me and his team-mates, seems really happy in himself and that would be a surprise to me.
“Our best players will always be attracting glances from other clubs, that is just the reality of football.
“We want to keep the group together, keep being progressive, and, of course, Sandro plays a part in that. All encompassed I don't see an issue but I am not in control of everything.”
Newcastle looking to overcome first leg loss
Tonali is expected to feature for Newcastle in midweek as they look to overcome a two-goal deficit in their bid to defend their EFL Cup crown.
The Magpies fell to a 2-0 semi-final first leg loss to City last month as goals from Antoine Semenyo and Rayan Cherki saw the Cityzens claim an early advantage.
The winner of Wednesday’s clash will face either Arsenal or Chelsea at Wembley in the EFL Cup final next month.
Arsenal secured a 3-2 win at Stamford Bridge in their first leg clash as the Gunners look to claim major silverware for the first time since their 2020 FA Cup triumph.
