Newcastle United have sealed the transfer of Italian U-21 captain Sandro Tonali from AC Milan on a five-year contract. The $66 million signing of the classy midfielder is seen as another step in the Magpies’ surge to the top tier of world football under the ownership of Saudi’s Public Investment Fund.The defensive midfielder’s move has been finalised, with Tonali coming in for what Newcastle have described as an “undisclosed fee”. The player is set to join in pre-season in good time for the new campaign, with players due back later this week.After beginning his senior career with Brescia, where he achieved promotion from Serie B, he moved to Milan in 2020 – initially on a season-long loan – and has now amassed 130 Serie A appearances. Last season, he also played in all 12 group and knock-out phase games as AC Milan reached the semi-final stage of the UEFA Champions League.United tied the deal up last week after sporting director Dan Ashworth and head of recruitment Steve Nickson flew to Milan to conclude business. The player’s medical was then completed in Romania at Italy U21’s training base.Tonali promised to give his all for the black-and-whites from the northeast of England. “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.”His move to Newcastle comes despite reports from Italy earlier this summer that he ‘rejected’ an offer from the Magpies and that AC Milan were ‘pushing’ for him to leave. La Republica claimed Stefano Pioli’s side ‘need the money’ from Tonali’s sale, but the midfielder ‘broke down in tears’ after being told about the move as he ‘never wanted to leave the club.’Milan’s loss is Newcastle’s gain as boss Eddie Howe got his wish as the club secured the signing of a top-class midfielder. “I’m delighted to welcome Sandro to Newcastle United. 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 as a key player in one of Europe’s top leagues and in the Champions League, as well as playing for his country. 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.”
