Newcastle United are looking to sign a defensive midfielder this summer, as they look to free up Bruno Guimaraes to play higher up the pitch.
The Brazilian operated in the number six role for all of last season, but is keen to play in a more advanced role in the future.
That is what Newcastle plan to do with Bruno, but to do that they need to sign someone who can take his place as a defensive midfielder.
Declan Rice has been linked, and for many would be the dream addition. The Magpies are keen to hold talks, but it looks like he will be out of our price range. Another option is Moises Caicedo, who also looks set to cost too much money.
The Toon recruitment team are going to have to think outside the box, and that could lead them to AC Milan.
Newcastle look at Sandro Tonali
According to the Daily Mail, Newcastle have discussed a possible move for AC Milan midfielder Sandro Tonali. The report states that the ‘merits’ of the 23-year-old have been ‘floated again’.
Tonali has been with AC Milan since 2020, costing around £27million from Brescia. He was a star of the future when he played for the now Serie C side, and he has lived up to the hype at the San Siro.
The Italy international really would be a statement signing by Newcastle, and the type of player who would be absolutely perfect to operate as a defensive midfielder in Howe’s side.
He has been likened to Andrea Pirlo in the past, boasting the same hair and glorious passing range as the legend himself. However, Pirlo disagrees. He thinks Tonali is actually a ‘more complete‘ player than he was.
That is huge praise, and sums up why Tonali has the talent to play as Howe’s number six. However, for all his ability, it feels like there is no chance of this deal ever coming to fruition. He is an AC Milan fan, and will surely cost the Magpies far too much money.
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