Sandro Tonali is taking a 'step backwards' by swapping AC Milan for Newcastle United ahead of his impending transfer worth at least £55 million. That is according to former Magpies defender Phillipe Albert, who admits the switch to St James' Park to play in the Premier League is a 'step forward' for the Italy international.
Tonali is expected to complete his move to Newcastle in the coming days, having already agreed terms on a six-year contract. The Serie A winner will provide Eddie Howe new options in midfield, not least the opportunity to potentially push Bruno Guimaraes further forward.
News of Tonali's transfer caused a stir in Italy, with national team boss Roberto Mancini suggesting it was a 'problem' to see the country's top talents move abroad. However, like Albert, the ex-Manchester City boss accepted the standard of the Premier League would boost the midfielder's own development.
Albert spent five seasons with Newcastle from 1994, and produced one of the Premier League's most memorable moments with his outrageous chip over Peter Schmeichel in the famous 5-0 thrashing of Manchester United. However, the former Magpies defender still feels that Tonali will be taking a step down by leaving one of Italy's most prestigious clubs.
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He told Milan News: "As for the championship, it's a step forward, the Premier League is certainly stronger. But Milan is still Milan, a club that has won many trophies and that in the 80s was the strongest team with the three Dutchmen, Baresi and Maldini
"And even later. Newcastle are a great club but currently going from Milan to Newcastle is a step backwards. But when a club is forced to accept offers of 80 million, the player then has to do the same and agree to leave."
