£52m midfielder set for St James’ Park visit after Newcastle United confirm major transfer

Sandro Tonali is set to arrive on Tyneside later this afternoon in what will be his first visit since becoming a Newcastle United player.

Newcastle confirmed on Monday afternoon Tonali had become their first major signing of the summer for an undisclosed fee — thought to be worth £52million plus adds-on.

While the Magpies’ media team has provided supporters with plenty of Tonali content, the 23-year-old is still yet to be physically pictured in a black and white shirt.

After successfully agreeing a transfer fee with AC Milan during face-to-face talks just under a fortnight ago, head of recruitment Steve Nickson wasted no time in finalising the deal on the player’s side.

Nickson, alongside Tonali’s agent, flew to Cluj-Napoca in Romania, where the player was based with Italy under-21s for the European Championships.

It was there Tonali underwent medical tests and agreed personal terms on a five-year contract, which includes an option of a sixth year.

Following Italy’s surprise group stage exit, Tonali was expected to travel to Tyneside on Monday but as reported by NewcastleWorld, plans were pushed back until Wednesday.

Newcastle still pressed ahead with announcing Tonali on Monday but today is set to see the 14-capped Italian international visit St James’ Park and the club’s Benton training ground for the first time.

Tonali will pose for photos and take part in club media duties, which will later be made available to supporters.

In Tonali’s first words as a United player, he said: “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.”

Magpies head coach Eddie Howe identified Tonali as his top target.

Tonali spent three seasons at his boyhood team Milan, where he helped the club win their first Scudetto in 11 years as well as reach the semi-finals of the Champions League for the first time since 2007 last season.

“I’m delighted to welcome Sandro to Newcastle United,” said Howe. “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.”