Martin Hardy, The Times’ reporter in the North East, reveals that Newcastle are eager to push through a deal for the AC Milan centre-back, confirming that he’s been identified as ‘first choice’ target to bolster our back line.

As suggested by the Italian media over the last 48 hours, The Times report that AC Milan are holding out for £35m and are expecting to receive an offer soon. However, Hardy claims that our current valuation is thought to be around £10m below the Serie A giants’ asking price.

Newcastle are in contact with San Siro chiefs and are actively pursuing a deal that brings the German to Tyneside. It seems pretty clear from Milan’s end that £25m will not be enough, but it’s encouraging that he’s keen on a move to the Prenier League and promising that his club will sell, albeit reluctantly.

Hopefully an agreement can be reached soon, with Eddie Howe eager to bring in a ‘commanding’ centre-back after missing out on Tosin Adarabioyo to Chelsea last month.

The Times also reveal that Sandro Tonali featured in a behind-closed-doors friendly against Burnley on Wednesday afternoon.

The game was not a regulated match by the FA, so he was allowed to play after being ineligible for our 3-1 win in Germany last week. Not only was it his first outing since his 10-month ban for gambling, the reports adds that ‘he was said to have played well.’