Newcastle United are hoping to strike a deal with AC Milan on Sandro Tonali.
Chronicle Live can confirm that "discussions" with Tonali's agent and the Magpies have taken place. And Newcastle chiefs have held higher level talks with Milan over a price.
After an enquiry earlier in the week Newcastle are now talking to the Serie A giants on a price and the structure of the deal with potential add ons and clauses factored in. Whether Newcastle can get the deal done before Italy's European Championship campaign begins this week remains to be seen but the transfer is active.
READ MORE: Newcastle United enquire about AC Milan star Sandro Tonali after huge claims of £50million bid
Tonali's price is yet to be decided after Newcastle's initial enquiry of £50million but Milan have suggested a price closer to £80million. Eddie Howe is a big fan of Tonali and feels he is the type of signing that can make things tick in midfield.
We understand that Newcastle would like to get the deal done sooner rather than later but are now in the hands of Milan. The Champions League side handed Tonali a new contract earlier this year which is active until 2027.
Tonali is a boyhood Milan supporter but Newcastle feel they can offer him a bumper deal of excellent personal terms compared to the £75,000 per week deal he is currently on.
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.