Heartbroken AC Milan fans in tears as Newcastle United confirm signing of ‘exceptional’ Sandro Tonali

AC Milan fans have been sharing their heartbreak at seeing midfield star Sandro Tonali complete a move to Newcastle United on Monday afternoon.

The Magpies confirmed the hotly-anticipated transfer today as the 23-year-old puts pen to paper on a five-year contract for a reported £55 million.

The marquee signing from Eddie Howe shows real intent as the club prepares to return to the Champions League next season. Tonali has a Champions League pedigree thanks to his time at the San Siro and adds extra bit to a Newcastle United midfield - NewastleWorld analysed exactly what the Italian will bring to the side last month.

It's no doubt a good sign for Newcastle United fans to see the outpouring of love from AC Milan supporters that has filled social media today.

The Italian giants posted a message of thanks to Tonali which read: "It was a beautiful journey together. Your Rossoneri family wishes you the best!"

Fans in the comments shared images and gifs of people in tears and posted heartbroken emojis in response to the news. One added: "I was hoping to never see this announcement... Good luck Sandro, will be watching Newcastle next season."

Another replied: "Sandro, Milano and the @acmilan will forever be your home and you will always be our Sandrino for me. I wish you all sorts of good life can give you."

Meanwhile, other fans disappointed at seeing Tonali move on to the North East of England, reasoned that the amount paid by Newcastle United was good news for the club.

One AC Milan supporter said: "Newcastle paid a good amount for it. And this will do good for Milan's coffers. Sandro Tonali has quality. We'll see if he becomes a champion. That he was in love with Milan is certain. But in football feelings today matter much less than in the past."

Tonali made 130 appearances for AC Milan over a three-year period, scoring seven and assisting 13 goals in the process. He was part of the 2021/22 Serie A winning squad and attracted praise from pundits during his time at the San Siro.

Upon joining Newcastle United, the midfielder said: "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."

Eddie Howe added: "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."