Before Newcastle United’s preseason training sessions begin, Sandro Tonali has travelled back to Tyneside.
On Wednesday and Thursday of last week, the Italian midfielder was in the North East to finalise the necessary paperwork for his £52 million plus add-ons transfer from AC Milan.
Before touring the team’s recently renovated Benton training facility, Tonali and his partner Juliette Pastore initially went house looking. Kieran Trippier, the Magpies interim captain, chatted with Tonali there.
The following day, the 23-year-old made a pit stop at the training facility to see head coach Eddie Howe before touring St James’ Park, posing for photos, and giving his first interview.
Tonali returned to the area Friday night after taking a little vacation by jet, and she was seen walking around the city. Tom Jolly, a fortunate fan, even got a picture.
The majority of Howe’s team, with the exception of those who were on international duty last month, started preseason on July 9. They will play in the first preseason friendly on Saturday against Gateshead (kick-off 12:30pm).
Over the weekend, Tonali as well as players like Joelinton and Bruno Guimaraes might be tested.
Before departing for the United States for the Premier League Summer Series, Newcastle plays difficult matches against Aston Villa, Chelsea, and Brighton & Hove Albion on Tuesday night when they go to Rangers.
The Sela Cup is then played in St. James’ Park, featuring Howe’s team. A week before hosting Unai Emery’s Villa at home for their Premier League debut, they have back-to-back matches against Fiorentina and Villarreal.
