Arsenal continues to dominate headlines even after the transfer window shuts down. The Gunners were quiet this January. But they still signed young talents such as Jaden Dixon and Evan Mooney, ensuring future strength. Arteta’s side are in great shape right now. They sit six points clear at the top of the table. They also beat Chelsea to reach the Carabao Cup final. Now, they are getting ready to play Sunderland. Yet, much of the focus remains away from the pitch. This article covers Newcastle’s comments on Sandro Tonali and a possible return for Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain to the Gunners team.
Newcastle United head coach Eddie Howe has played down rumors linking Sandro Tonali with a move away from St James’ Park. Howe insists he is happy. They say he is a big part of their long-term plans.
Tonali is under contract until the summer of 2028. Newcastle has the option to extend his deal by a further year until 2030. He continues to be linked with Arsenal, who are said to be looking to strengthen their midfield. One key detail is Newcastle’s stronger position in talks after the arrival of sporting director Ross Wilson.
With over 90 games for the Magpies, Sandro Tonali remains an integral part of the team, despite all the transfer rumors.
Eddie Howe on Sandro Tonali:
“I had discussions with Sandro yesterday [Monday] and he is totally focused on the here, the now and playing for us.
“There is absolutely no issue with Sandro himself. He is very happy and he is committed.”https://t.co/Vj31G4q5gI
— Martin Hardy (@mhardysport) February 3, 2026
Sandro Tonali’s agent keeps transfer talk alive
Giuseppe Riso, the midfielder’s agent, keeps the star in the news. Riso says he did not offer Tonali to other clubs on deadline day. But his latest words show things could still change soon.
The agent said talks about Tonali’s value could happen as early as March or April, but only if Newcastle are willing to listen. Riso seems to have a clear plan. It allows him to test market interest without pushing for a quick exit.
At the same time, Newcastle’s leadership remains firm. Chief executive David Hopkinson has described Tonali as a “superstar player” and insists he is not for sale. He remains central in the team’s future planning.
The Transfer loophole explained
A Premier League registration rule allows Arsenal to add players. This gives them a chance to boost their squad even though the transfer window is closed. While the standard deadline has passed, clubs can still sign free agents until 25 March.
This loophole only applies if a club has not filled its 25-man senior squad. Currently, Arsenal have four vacant spots. They have only registered 21 senior players so far. The situation has become more relevant due to Mikel Merino’s injury. The midfielder is sidelined with a broken foot.
As a result, the manager may take his chances on signing former Arsenal midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. The player is currently without a club and has been seen training with Arsenal’s Under-21s recently. Arteta has not ruled out the move yet. He says the club will consider every possible option to ensure squad depth for the title push.
🚨Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has been training with the Arsenal U21s for the past two months.
Mikel Arteta did not rule out Arsenal signing their former midfielder as cover for the remainder of the season. pic.twitter.com/9ECAiNuA7Z
— now.arsenal (@now_arsenaI) February 3, 2026
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain career history and current staus
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has a long history at Arsenal. He has played 198 games and won three FA Cups during his six-seasons for the club. He remains the youngest English goalscorer in UEFA Champions League history, a record he set during his time as a Gunner.
After leaving Arsenal, he had spells at Liverpool and Beşiktaş. The 32-year-old midfielder is now a free agent after his contract in Turkey ended in August 2025. To maintain his fitness, he has been training with Arsenal’s first team and recently played in a closed-door friendly for the Under-21 side.
He has won 35 senior England caps, with his last game for the Three Lions coming in 2019. He is now available for immediate registration.
Final Thoughts
The cases of Sandro Tonali and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain show why Arsenal stays at the heart of transfer news.
As featured on GoonerNews.com
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