Roberto Mancini fears there are 'problems' with Italian football if Newcastle United complete a deal for Sandro Tonali. The AC Milan star has agreed a six-year contract with the Magpies, and is due to undergo a medical in the coming days in a transfer expected to be worth at least £55 million.
Tonali is currently on international duty with Italy's under-21s, and impressed despite their opening defeat to France on Thursday night. The midfielder's agent Giuseppe Riso has confirmed Newcastle provides a 'perfect project' for the player, having held face-to-face talks with the 23-year-old and Magpies' representatives.
The impending transfer has sparked debate in Italy, with AC Milan fans conflicted about watching one of their prized assets decide to leave for the Premier League. Italy boss Mancini was asked about the transfer, and while accepting the midfielder would benefit from playing in England, he admits he harbours 'regrets' in watching one of the country's top talents opt to swap Serie A for St James' Park.
He told Sky Sports Italia via Calciomercato: “On the one hand there’s some regrets, if a player as good and young as Tonali leaves Italy it means there’s some problems. On a technical level though, playing in the Premier League will serve Tonali well, it’s good for him.”
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Tonali's exit would be the latest setback to anger the Rossoneri fans, following the departure of club legend Paolo Maldini from his post as technical director earlier this month. Newcastle could be plotting further moves from Serie A in this window, with reports suggesting AC Milan full-back Theo Hernandez and Juventus forward Federico Chiesa are also on the club's radar.
