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Arsenal are exploring a shock deadline day move to sign Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali, according to Florian Plettenberg of Sky Sports Germany.
The Gunners are looking at a potential short-term loan for a midfielder after Mikel Merino was ruled out for an extended period with a bone injury in his foot.
While there was no guarantee of a deal materialising for a replacement, Mikel Arteta's side are now on the hunt for the Magpies midfielder, but a deal is expected to be very difficult.
Arsenal exploring shock deadline day move for Sandro Tonali
🚨💣 EXCLUSIVE | Arsenal are exploring a surprising Deadline Day move for Sandro #Tonali.
— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) February 2, 2026
Very difficult at this stage, as Newcastle have rejected an initial approach.@SkySportDE 🇮🇹 pic.twitter.com/13lSEw5pmK
Plettenberg revealed top sources had told him Arsenal were exploring a late move for Tonali, holding direct talks over the last couple of hours.
However, he emphasised a deal would be very difficult to materialise at this current stage as Newcastle have not given the green light.
It is currently unclear what the manner of the deal would be as no mention of a permanent or loan agreement leaves it very uncertain. The Gunners were said to be looking at short-term loan move, but most would imagine it would need a big money offer to prompt the Magpies to let Tonali go.
It would be extremely surprising if the Tyneside outfit were to allow the midfielder to leave at such a late stage in the notice, especially without a real possibility of bringing in a replacement.
Tonali has been a crucial player for Eddie Howe this season, providing five assists in 35 appearances across all competitions. Having appeared in every one of Newcastle's Premier League games so far this campaign, they would be resigned to allowing him to depart as they look to keep their hopes of a European finish alive.
With a while to go until the 7pm deadline (UK time), Arsenal have plenty of time to strike an agreement with Newcastle or make the decision to look elsewhere. Andrea Berta and Co will certainly have a big task on their hands over the coming hours if they are keen to add a new midfielder to the ranks before the window slams shut.