Newcastle United's pursuit of Sandro Tonali took a twist on Wednesday afternoon as his agent was spotted with AC Milan CEO Giorgio Furlani as the pair discussed the player's future over a lunchtime meal.
Chronicle Live understands "discussions" with Tonali's agent and the Magpies have also taken place. And Newcastle chiefs have held higher level talks with Milan over a price.
Leaked photos in the Italian press showed the meeting as Newcastle pushed ahead with trying to secure a deal for the 23-year-old Italian superstar. Tonali himself is unlikely to be involved in face-to-face discussions any time soon as he captains his country at the U21 European Championship taking place in Georgia and Romania this month.
Italy's youngsters take on France on Wednesday before group stage clashes with Switzerland and Norway. Tonali has earned 14 caps for the senior side but Italy boss Roberto Mancini has allowed some experienced players to line up for the under-21 outfit this month.
READ MORE: Newcastle show they mean business with incredible £150m display of ambition via Tonali and Barella
Tonali could be tempted by a move to St James' Park with Newcastle able to significantly improve the player's weekly wage. The former Brescia midfielder, once compared to the great Andrea Pirlo, could become Newcastle's top earner this summer.
Milan will drive a hard bargain for the San Siro favourite, however, and are likely to ask for €80m (£73m) to part ways. Newcastle are trying to structure to deal to include a smaller lump sum with added performance-related clauses and bonuses.
Milan supporters have been debating the matter in recent days and the club's own superstar attacker, Rafael Leao, sparked attention on Wednesday when he 'liked' a Tweet on the matter. “At €80m can we consider selling or should we be the only team not to sell players?” read the social media message that the Portuguese international had reacted to.
Newcastle have also been linked with Inter Milan's Nicolo Barella in recent days but the Serie A club are determined to keep hold of their prized asset. The 26-year-old, who also represents Italy, is 'untouchable' according to the club's diehard supporters.
