Newcastle United inks deal with Italy's Sandro Tonali
Sandro Tonali and Zlatan Ibrahimović prior to AC Milan's 2-0 win over Shamrock Rovers in 2020 Credit: Michael P Ryan (ETPhotos)
Newcastle United has signed Italian international midfielder Sandro Tonali from AC Milan.
Although the official fee remains undisclosed, rumoured to be in the region of £55 million, the 23-year-old has agreed to a contract at St. James' Park until 2028.
Tonali, who has captained his country during the recent UEFA Under-21 European Championships and earned 14 international caps for Italy, is hailed as one of Italy's most promising young talents.
His football career took off with Brescia, earning a promotion from Serie B, and then moved to Milan in 2020 on a season-long loan. His tenure in Serie A now totals an impressive 130 appearances.
Last season, Tonali played in all 12 group and knock-out phase games as AC Milan reached the semi-final stage of the UEFA Champions League.
Upon his signing, Tonali expressed his gratitude and excitement for this new chapter in his career.
He said to the club website, "First of all, I want to thank Newcastle United because they are giving me a huge opportunity for my career. 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."
Eddie Howe, Newcastle United's head coach, extended a warm welcome to the midfielder, praising his abilities and potential.
Howe stated, "He is an exceptional talent and has the mentality, physicality and technical attributes to be a great fit for us. At 23, Sandro already has important experience...But he also has the opportunity and potential to grow and evolve with us, and I'm excited to add him to our squad as we approach the exciting season ahead."
