TEAMTALK
Italy manager Roberto Mancini has admitted some ‘regret’ that Sandro Tonali is leaving Serie A behind him to join Newcastle United.
Newcastle are on the verge of completing the signing of Tonali from AC Milan after having a club-record bid accepted. Personal terms have also been agreed with the midfielder, who has passed the necessary medical checks.
Therefore, Tonali will be able to be unveiled as a Newcastle player very soon. While Eddie Howe will be hoping to benefit from having a new midfield talent at his disposal, it is fair to say the move has sent shockwaves through Italy.
Tonali is about to become the most expensive player his country has ever produced. Hence, he is a high-profile capture for Newcastle.
Currently, Tonali has been on duty with Italy’s under-21 team at the European Championship for that age group. However, he is 23 years old now and does have 14 senior caps for the country under his belt already.
Thus, Mancini has been asked for his opinion of the midfielder’s upcoming move. According to the former Man City boss, Tonali will find his new experience in England ‘useful’ – but there must be ‘some problems’ that have led to him leaving Serie A.
Italy boss sees both sides of Tonali to Newcastle transfer
Mancini told Sky Sport Italia: “On one hand there’s a bit of regret if a good and young player like Tonali leaves Italy. It means there are some problems.