July 03, (THEWILL) – Newcastle United have announced the signing of Italian midfielder, Sandro Tonali, from AC Milan, confirming a five-year contract until 2028, according to the Premier League club’s statement on Monday.
Although the financial details were not disclosed, reports monitored by THEWILL indicate that Newcastle paid Milan a fee of €70 million including add-ons. Tonali, who played a crucial role in guiding Milan to their first Serie A title in 11 years, previously and reaching the UEFA Champions League semi-finals last season, said: “First of all, I want to thank Newcastle United because they are giving me a huge opportunity for my career,” Tonali said. “I want to repay the trust on the pitch, giving it my all, as I always have.”
With the reported fee, Tonali’s transfer sets a new record, making him the most expensive Italian player in history. The deal also marks a record sale for AC Milan, surpassing the €68 million that Real Madrid paid for Brazilian midfielder Kaka in 2009. Tonali’s versatility and consistent presence in central midfield played a significant role in Milan’s success last season, where he featured in more games than any other Milan player, accumulating nearly 4,000 minutes across all competitions.
Tonali becomes the second addition to the Newcastle squad during the summer transfer window, following the signing of 18-year-old Gambian forward Yankuba Minteh from Danish side Odense Boldklub. Despite not making the squad for the UEFA Nations League finals, Tonali possesses 14 senior caps for Italy.
Newcastle’s acquisition of Tonali comes on the back of their qualification for the UCL, an achievement they have secured after a 20-year absence from the prestigious competition. Manager Eddie Howe led them to a top-four finish in the previous season.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
