Fabrizio Romano: Newcastle complete record-breaking signing of world-class Serie A midfielder

Reputed transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Newcastle United have signed AC Milan midfielder Sandro Tonali.

The 23-year-old is widely considered to be one of the best young midfielders in Europe, so it is a major coup for the Magpies to sign him.

It’s no secret that Eddie Howe has been looking to add a new quality midfielder to his squad. Now, it seems he has done just that after bringing in Tonali.

This was confirmed by Fabrizio Romano, who claims that Newcastle have agreed a transfer for a fee of 70m (approx. £59.9m) for Tonali.

On Twitter, Romano wrote: “Sandro Tonali to Newcastle, here we go! Agreement for €70m fee with add-ons.

“Milan will also have a sell-on clause. Medical done, contracts ready. Tonali will sign a contract until 2029 for €7m per year and €2m add-ons. It’s a record-breaking sale for an Italian player.”

So, barring any late twists, it seems certain that Tonali will be playing at St James’ Park next season.

Now, it will be interesting to see how he slots into Howe’s starting XI. Although, a midfield trio of Bruno Guimaraes, Joelinton and Tonali seems most likely.

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Eddie Howe targets Serie A stars

Last season, Tonali made 48 appearances across all competitions for AC Milan. In the process, he scored two goals and made 10 assists.

Generally operating as a defensive midfielder, the Italy international’s best attributes are his tackling, interceptions and his passing.

Tonali has plenty of experience at the highest level, too, making 12 appearances in the Champions League last term as the Rossoneri reached the semi-finals.

With Newcastle set to be competing in the Champions League for the first time since 2003, Tonali is exactly the kind of player they need to bring in.

Interestingly, the midfielder isn’t the only Serie A star the Magpies’ have their eye on at the moment.

Indeed, as reported by TEAMtalk, Juventus attacker Federico Chiesa is another potential option for Newcastle. 

Tonali’s Italy teammate Chiesa has had some injury problems recently. But, there is no doubt that he is a top quality player when fully fit.

Also, Howe has allegedly placed AC Milan left-back Theo Hernandez on his transfer shortlist, too. Last term, the manager largely relied on Dan Burn in that position, but, it seems he is now looking to bring in a more natural full-back.

So, even with a deal for Tonali now done, Newcastle fans should definitely keep an eye on Serie A over the next couple of weeks.

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