Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has a crucial opportunity to strengthen his Premier League-leading squad before the transfer window slams shut on Monday 2nd February 2026. The Gunners are reportedly poised to exploit Newcastle United's Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) concerns with potential moves for two key Magpies assets.
Newcastle's Financial Handcuffs Open Door for Arsenal
Newcastle boss Eddie Howe has publicly admitted the club's transfer activity is severely restricted this winter due to PSR regulations. Speaking to Sky Sports, Howe confirmed the club's dilemma, stating they must weigh "short-term need versus the long-term decision of the football club." This financial vulnerability has placed several of their players in the spotlight, with Arsenal ready to test their resolve.
Arsenal, along with Manchester City, are said to hold a strong interest in Newcastle's right-back Tino Livramento, according to reports from The Sun. The 23-year-old England international, who has three senior caps, would provide fierce competition for Jurrien Timber in Arteta's defensive setup. His potential arrival could also facilitate the departure of Ben White, who has seen his playing time diminish and is reportedly attracting interest from Everton.
Double Raid: Tonali Also in Gunners' Sights
Arsenal's strategy appears to extend beyond defence. The North London club is also being urged to make a move for Newcastle's Italian midfielder Sandro Tonali. The 25-year-old, capped 30 times for Italy, has previously been linked with Chelsea but now emerges as a potential target for the Gunners.
Tonali, with 83 appearances for Newcastle since his move from AC Milan, would add significant quality, depth, and experience to Arsenal's midfield. He could compete with the likes of Declan Rice, Martin Zubimendi, and Martin Odegaard, providing vital squad rotation as Arsenal challenge on multiple fronts, including their ongoing Carabao Cup semi-final against Chelsea.
Strategic Moves for a Title Push
Currently sitting top of the Premier League after 21 games, above Manchester City and Aston Villa, Arteta's side is in a powerful position. Their recent 4-1 FA Cup victory at Portsmouth underscores their strong form. Securing players of Livramento and Tonali's calibre could be the final piece of the puzzle in their quest to win a first league title in over two decades, having fallen agonisingly short in recent seasons.
Signing either player would represent a major coup, directly weakening a potential rival while bolstering Arsenal's own resources for the intense run-in. With the clock ticking towards the February deadline, the Gunners' board has a clear chance to make a decisive and ambitious statement of intent.
