Newcastle open talks with AC Milan over big-money move for Sandro Tonali, a bid has been made
Newcastle United are attempting to make a splash in this summer's transfer window with the capture of highly-rated AC Milan and Italy midfielder Sandro Tonali.
It has been a busy start to the window for Eddie Howe's men. So far, they have been linked with a host of players, including James Maddison, Nicolo Barella, Kim Min-jae and Kieran Tierney.
The Magpies, meanwhile, want to sign two midfielders this summer, according to The Athletic, who suggest a defensive and a more versatile option are being targeted ahead of Champions League football next season.
Inter Milan midfielder Barella, who is valued by the club at £50million, is certainly the standout name in that list but another Italy international has emerged as a potential signing.
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In fact, Newcastle have made a bid in the region of €50million [£42m] for Italy U21 captain Sandro Tonali, according to widespread reports.
The signing of Tonali, a player that thrives in the regista role, would certainly allow Bruno Guimaraes to flourish in a more advanced role if he were to join the ranks at St James' Park.
He also offers versatility. He has played in numerous midfield roles under Stefano Pioli, and has the ability to make things happen in the final third.
The 23-year-old, who joined AC Milan on a season-long loan from Brescia in 2020 before a deal was made permanent a year later, made 48 appearances for the Serie A outfit last season.
🇮🇹 Sandro Tonali
— ToonArmy (@toonarmy_com) June 21, 2023
• 23 years old
• 5 ft 11 tall
• Position DM/CM
• 10 assists in 48 games last season
• WhoScored strengths: Key passes, set-pieces, tackling/blocking, long balls#NUFC pic.twitter.com/UutWaLL8bl
Fabrizio Romano believes a deal to sign Tonali could be "difficult" for Newcastle.
“Yesterday, we had some rumours about Sandro Tonali to Newcastle," he said on his YouTube channel.
“What we can say is that it’s a reality. Newcastle like Sandro Tonali, Newcastle have Sandro Tonali on their list but as we already said for Nicolo Barella last week, this is a very similar case.
“Newcastle would love to sign Sandro Tonali as they would love to sign Nicolo Barella but the main point is first of all the value of the bid because Milan want important money or nothing.
“Tonali is more than an important player for Milan, and then there’s the player’s side."
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Romani added: “It’s crucial to say because Tonali is a big Milan fan, he’s a Milan symbol and so to convince Sandro Tonali is going to be absolutely difficult, same as it was for Nicolo Barella.
“So, this is the situation, let’s see how the conversation goes. Interest, yes, intention to bid too, but the reality is the player’s side is absolutely crucial for Barella and Tonali.”
Thoughts on Newcastle's ambitious move for Tonali?
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Topics: Sandro Tonali, AC Milan, Newcastle United, Transfers
Jack Kenmare