Newcastle remain locked in talks with AC Milan over £55m Sandro Tonali deal

Newcastle remain in negotiations with AC Milan over the £55m transfer of Italy midfielder Sandro Tonali.

Sporting director Dan Ashworth and head of recruitment Steve Nickson held talks on Thursday with Milan executives and Tonali's agent Giuseppe Rio at the Palazzo Parigi Hotel.

Tonali played for Italy U21s against France in Romania and his agent is expected to meet him on Friday to finalise details ahead of any deal being signed off and medicals taking place.

Boss Eddie Howe has identified the 23-year-old midfielder as his top summer target.

Tonali has been watched extensively by Newcastle's scouts in recent months, including the Champions League semi-finals against rivals Inter, which ended in defeat.

He appeared 48 times for his boyhood club last season and scored two goals.

Tonali is seen as a player who can anchor Newcastle's midfield, freeing Bruno Guimaraes to play further forward.

A No 6 was the club's priority from the outset of the window.

Newcastle hope a potential move for Crystal Palace defender Joachim Andersen may be aided by the London club's pursuit of Torino defender Perr Schurrs.

Newcastle have also checked on Hertha Berlin forward Derry Scherhant, 20.