Sandro Tonali joins Newcastle from AC Milan

Newcastle United sign Italian international Sandro Tonali from AC Milan, boosting midfield strength and igniting fans' hopes.

Sandro Tonali in full flight as he featured for Italy against England in the UEFA Nations League

Newcastle United have confirmed the signing of Italy international midfielder Sandro Tonali from AC Milan as they continue to bolster their squad ahead of the new season.

The 23-year-old has penned a reported €70m deal with add-ons that will keep him at St. James' Park until 2028.

✍️ We are delighted to announce the signing of Sandro Tonali from @acmilan.

The 23-year-old joins the Magpies for an undisclosed fee and has agreed a contract at St. James’ Park initially until 2028.

Welcome to Newcastle United, Sandro! 🇮🇹 pic.twitter.com/BbxrNUzVNo

— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) July 3, 2023

Tonali, one of the most sought-after young players in Italy, has earned 14 caps for the national team and recently captained the Under-21 side in the UEFA European Championships this summer.

Sandro Tonali told the club's 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."

The Lombardy-born player launched his professional football career with Brescia, where his outstanding performances were pivotal in the club's promotion from Serie B.

His talent did not go unnoticed, as he was picked up by AC Milan in 2020 on a season-long loan before the move was made permanent. 

Since then, he has tallied 130 appearances in Serie A, demonstrating consistent high-level performances.

In the last UEFA Champions League campaign, Tonali was instrumental in AC Milan's run to the semi-finals.

He was featured in all 12 of their group and knockout stage matches, further underlining his importance to the team and showcasing his talents on the international stage.

This signing illustrates Newcastle United's ambition to build a formidable team and challenge in the top tier of English football. 

With a talent like Sandro Tonali in their ranks, the upcoming season holds great promise for Newcastle United.

Sandro Tonali is currently the most expensive Italian player ever

The 10 most expensive Italian players 🇮🇹 pic.twitter.com/pT6aHFYyzI

— Italian Football News 🇮🇹 (@footitalia1) July 3, 2023

What Newcastle United head coach, Eddie Howe, said about his new signing: 

"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."