Eddie Howe has issued a defiant message and warned Arsenal they have no intention of losing their talismanic midfielder Sandro Tonali.
The Italy international was reported to be the subject of interest from the Gunners who were scouring the market for an option to offer cover for the injured Mikel Merino.
Newcastle moved swiftly to reject any notion of the former AC Milan star joining the Premier League leaders and Howe echoed that sentiment in his press conference ahead of tomorrow night’s Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Manchester City.
He said: ‘There was no intention for our side to lose Sandro at all. He’s such an integral part of what we’re doing. He’s very happy here, he loves playing for Newcastle and loves representing the city.’
Asked if he feared Monday’s rumours were the start of campaign to unsettle the player in the same way Alexander Isak was over the summer before his acrimonious move to Liverpool, Howe added: ”I don’t think so.
‘But lots of things happen without my knowledge. As far as I’m aware we’ve got a player that’s an outstanding footballer and an outstanding person. He’s very happy here and he’s got a great relationship with me, his teammates.
‘Our best players are always going to be attracting glances from other clubs, that’s just the reality of football. We want to keep the group together and keep being progressive.
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‘Sandro plays a part in that trying to hit his best levels and trying to help the team. I don’t see an issue but I’m not in control of everything.’
More to follow…
