Italy manager Roberto Mancini would 'regret' a young player of Sandro Tonali's quality leaving Italy, although he admitted the 23-year-old would benefit 'on a technical level' from playing in the Premier League.
Newcastle sporting director Dan Ashworth is currently in Italy negotiating a £55 million move for the AC Milan star, after something of a breakthrough campaign that saw him play 48 games.
Tonali, who is currently away with Italy Under 21s at the Euros, has been nicknamed the 'new Pirlo' as both midfielders started at Brescia before joining Milan.
He is a more industrious player than the Italy legend, though, and could be vital in feeding Newcastle's attacking players if he does sign.