Sandro Tonali has already shocked Newcastle United officials before even kicking a ball

Newcastle United have already been shocked by new signing Sandro Tonali before he's even kicked a ball.

The Magpies have made the Italy midfielder their club-record signing ahead of appearing in next season's Champions League.

Newcastle will pay a fee €70 million as well as an extra €10 million in additional bonuses, making Tonali the most expensive Italian in history and AC Milan's record departure.

The club have made a slew of statement signings since they were taken over by the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund, including the likes of Bruno Guimaraes and Alexander Isak.

But this deal feels monumental and signals the growing intent at St James' Park. In fact, Newcastle officials have been left stunned that they were able to bring in Tonali, one of the most talented and exciting midfielders in the world.

A senior club figure told The Athletic: "Similar to the Isak signing, we didn’t really think we could get him. Sandro is a star at AC Milan. He lives and breathes the club. We weren’t expecting it.”

Tonali, 23, came through the ranks at Brescia and made his debut as a 17-year-old before making a further 88 appearances.

He then joined AC Milan, initially on loan before the move became permanent, and went on to make 130 appearances and winning Serie A in 2022.

The Italy international becomes Newcastle's first signing of the summer going into a huge season back in Europe's premier club competition.

“First of all, I want to thank Newcastle United because they are giving me a huge opportunity for my career," he told Newcastle's official website after signing a five-year contract.

“I want to repay the trust on the pitch, giving it my all, as I always have. I'm really excited about playing at St. James' Park, I can't wait to feel the warmth of the fans."

As per Fabrizio Romano, Milan have a 10 per cent sell-on clause any future transfer paid for Tonali.

Although one fan has already got a Tonali No.20 shirt, his shirt number has to be confirmed.

Featured Image Credit: Getty & Twitter/@FabrizioRomano

Topics: Newcastle United, Sandro Tonali, Serie A, Italy

Josh Lawless

Josh is a sports journalist who specialises in football and wrestling. He has been published by Curzon Ashton FC, Late Tackle, Manchester City FC, The Mirror, Read Man City and Manchester Evening News. He provides coverage of professional wrestling and has interviewed some of the biggest names in the field - including the first UK interview with The Hardy Boyz after their return to WWE. He has never sported a pair of Lonsdale Slip-ons, contrary to reports.

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