Shaka Hislop says he’s not going to doubt Eddie Howe’s Newcastle United signing Sandro Tonali from AC Milan after making that mistake with Alexander Isak last summer.
The former Newcastle United goalkeeper shared how he ‘certainly questioned’ the price-tag on Alexander Isak last summer, but he has since proven to be an ‘absolute bargain’.
As a result, he added on ESPN that Eddie Howe has ‘earned the right’ to push the boat out for a player like Sandro Tonali from Serie A giants AC Milan.
Given that the Magpies are now in the Champions League, then those high-class players need to land on Newcastle’s doorstep.
Both in terms of taking the club’s XI to the next level, but also enhancing the squad because a lot of players will be playing three times a week for the first time in their careers.
Nonetheless, given the rumours regarding Tonali and how they are close to a £60 million transfer, then Hislop is excited by it all and is backing the move.
“They are going to spend it where there is a need and Tonali certainly fits Eddie Howe’s profile because he’s a young, dynamic midfielder, who is box-to-box, more defensive,” said Hislop. “They have a couple of those in Guimaraes and Joelinton.
“But Newcastle spend, as much as you might question the price tag about Tonali. I certainly questioned the price tag around Alexander Isak 12 months ago, and given his performances, it was an absolute bargain at £70 million.
“I think Eddie Howe has earned this little bit of wiggle room, in terms of not questioning the prices he is willing to pay.”
Tonali is a top, top purchase
A certain Declan Rice might be moving to Arsenal for over £100 million, but this possible deal from Newcastle is probably better value.
Tonali does have a defensive brain, but he can play as a number eight, he is very aggressive without the ball and can carry the ball forward.
If the Italy international signs, then that Newcastle midfield, added to the possibility that James Maddison signs, is looking like one of the best in the Premier League.
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