Newcastle close in on AC Milan midfielder Sandro Tonali

Newcastle United are close to securing the signature of AC Milan midfielder Sandro Tonali, according to Milan News.

Milan managing director Giorgio Furlani, head of scouting Geoffrey Moncada and Tonali’s agent Giuseppe Riso met to discuss the possibility of a transfer.

Tonali is reportedly a top midfield target for Newcastle manager Eddie Howe who is trying to strengthen his midfield.

Milan will seek a figure close to €70million for the former Brescia star after his two-year stint in Milan.

Tonali excels at breaking up opposition attacks and driving his team forward. He can function as a deep-lying playmaker or in a more dynamic box-to-box role. 

The 23-year-old recorded 1.89 progressive passes per 90 over the past season, ranking in the 74th percentile amongst midfielders in the top five European leagues.

Tonali contributed two goals and created 12 big chances for the Rossoneri as they finished fourth in Serie A last season.

The Italian midfielder played an important role as they won the Serie A title in 2021/22. He scored five goals and created eight big chances in 36 appearances.

Tonali was influential in Milan’s run to the Champions League semi-final this season. He created nine big chances, recording two assists in his 12 appearances.

He is an instrumental midfielder for head coach Stefano Pioli, who pairs him with Ismael Bennacer or Rade Krunic.

The Magpies will make a proposal that will rival the fee they paid for their club-record transfer Alexander Isak.

Howe is desperate to reinforce his midfield and has asked the club to sign two players. If they can wrap up this deal, they will move for Leicester City’s James Maddison. 

The England international is another top target for Howe, but they will need to negotiate the Foxes’ £60 million valuation of the playmaker.