Arsenal given huge Newcastle transfer update as new Mikel Arteta priority becomes clear

Sandro Tonali has provided an update on his future at Newcastle United, putting Arsenal on red alert ahead of the summer transfer window. The 24-year-old midfielder has been heavily linked with a move back to AC Milan ahead of the international break later this month.

Tonali, who sees his contract at St. James' Park expire in June 2028, has featured 25 times in the Premier League this season, scoring one goal and providing one assist. Playing a key role in Eddie Howe's side, he's helped the Magpies climb to sixth in the table.

The Italy international's efforts haven't gone under the radar, with Juventus making numerous enquiries about his availability, according to the Chronicle. However, speaking to our sister site, Tonali has put those stories to bed.

"I have never spoken about returning [to the Serie A] with my agents," the midfielder told Italian newspaper La Repubblica. "And I know, from experience, that if you don’t get to that point, there is nothing concrete. Anyway, in any case, I am happy with myself here, I have found my rhythm here, and there is no need to upset it again."

On the Carabao Cup final, Tonali, who joined Newcastle from Milan for £55m in in the summer 2023, added: "I want to win for the Newcastle fans; soon, we will have the first opportunity at Wembley. The transfer has been good, not just economically. I grew up and discovered a new country, a new football and a new language."

While Tonali pledged his immediate future to Milan, he refused to shut the door on a return one day. He said: "I have no regrets. The idea of returning to Milan one day is there, but it’s not the thought that comes when I wake up in the morning."

With Tonali off the cards this summer, Arsenal will have to prioritise other midfielders if Mikel Arteta wants to bolster his side. The Italian's right-hand man, Bruno Guimarães, has been heavily linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium on numerous occasions in the past.

Speaking to Sky Sports back in March 2022, shortly after joining Newcastle from Olympique Lyonnais for £40m, the Brazil international revealed that he had actually spoken to the Gunners about a potential switch. Guimarães said: "I did speak to some other clubs.

"But the only concrete offer came in from Newcastle and I really wanted to come here. I've always wanted to play in the Premier League and on top of that it was the start of a new sporting project for the club."

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