AC Milan legend Arrigo Sacchi has given Sandro Tonali's move his full backing. The transfer of the 23-year-old is expected to be confirmed when his involvement with Italy at the under-21 European Championships comes to an end.
The midfielder is set to complete a £63m switch from the Serie A giants in a deal the now 77-year-old says was too good for his former club to turn down. Sacchi is held in high regard by the Rossoneri for his achievements in the late 1980s.
He won the title in his first season in charge, before delivering back-to-back European cups in 1989 and 1990. He's been having his say on Milan's summer transfer window and believes they were right to accept the bid from Newcastle United.
He believes the money from the Tonali sale, some of which has already been spent on Chelsea's Ruben Loftus-Cheek, will give them the opportunity to invest in new players and kick on following their fourth-placed finish.
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“I think that directors have a project in mind, at least I hope so. So it’s fair to let them work and judge them afterwards,” Sacchi told Gazzetta. "Now let’s see what they can build keeping an eye on the books. It’s the correct strategy.
"Some figures [reported 70m euros] are fundamental for a club like Milan. You’ll see that Milan will gamble on young players, trying to imitate Napoli. Don’t forget they won the title after selling Koulbaly, Insigne, Mertens and Fabian Ruiz, their most famous players.
“Loftus-Cheek is strong physically, he moves a lot which is crucial in today’s football. He also has international experience and this can help the group grow."
The news of Tonali's sale has not gone down well with Milan fans, but Sacchi is urging them not to panic. He added: "Fans must remember that playing style is more important than players.
“Without that, even a big champion struggles. Milan won a Serie A title without big names, playing good and entertaining football.
"This must be the reference point. Play well, and have strong motivation and ethics. These are fundamental qualities to go far. Stefano Pioli is a wise coach and knows these secrets."
Tonali's transfer fee shows the club's Saudi owners are making their intentions clear that they plan to support Eddie Howe following last season's excellent fourth-place finish.
The transfer window is still in its infancy but already this deal, finalised following Dan Ashworth's visit to Milan recently, is a statement of intent about their business in the market this summer as they look to bring in new additions ahead of a Champions League campaign.
