Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has confirmed that Italian midfielder Sandro Tonali will remain with the team, categorically denying rumors linking the player to a move to Arsenal during the last winter transfer window, and stressing that the player’s future lies at St. James’ Park.
Background of the deal and challenges of the first season
Sandro Tonali's move to Newcastle United in the summer of 2023 from AC Milan was a club-record transfer and a highlight of the ambitious project spearheaded by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund. The signing of the Italian star, a beloved captain at Milan, sent a clear message that Newcastle aimed to compete with Europe's elite clubs. However, Tonali's start in England was met with an unexpected challenge: a 10-month ban for betting offenses, which sidelined him for most of the current season.
Howe trusts Tonali's commitment
Under these circumstances, press reports, particularly in Italy, have emerged indicating contact between the player's agent and Arsenal, the Premier League leaders, to discuss the possibility of a last-minute deal in the winter transfer window. When asked if he feared Tonali's departure next summer, Howe expressed his complete confidence in the 23-year-old's commitment. He said: “We have an outstanding footballer and a fantastic character. As far as I know, he's very happy here. He has an excellent relationship with me and his teammates, and he seems genuinely happy, so it would surprise me if he left.”.
The importance of stability in the Newcastle project
Retaining key players like Tonali is central to Newcastle's long-term strategy. After years of stagnation, the club is striving to build a team capable of consistently competing for titles both domestically and in Europe. Howe acknowledged that the team's best players will always attract interest from bigger clubs, saying: “That’s football. We want to keep the group together, we want to keep progressing, and of course, Sandro is part of that.” Confirming Tonali's stay sends a message of stability to both fans and players, and underscores that the club will not easily part with its most valuable assets.
Financial Fair Play restrictions
Despite the significant financial backing the club has received from its new owners, Howe did not hide his frustration at not being able to strengthen the squad in the winter transfer window, especially given the numerous injuries and the congested fixture schedule. He explained that Newcastle's spending power is limited by the Premier League's Profitability and Sustainability (PSR) rules. He said: "We really didn't have any other option. We're under financial constraints and we have to be smart, so we decided to wait until the summer." This financial reality makes retaining the current stars a top priority, rather than pursuing expensive new signings.
A look towards the future
With the speculation surrounding Tonali's future settled, Newcastle are now focused on finishing the season strongly and preparing for the Italian star's return next season as a key player in the team's midfield. Howe's public support for his player during this difficult time demonstrates the club's strong belief in Tonali as a cornerstone of the team for years to come, contributing to the club's ambitious goals in both English and European competitions.
