Major update: Newcastle now on the verge of signing AC Milan's Sandro Tonali - David Ornstein

Some huge claims have just emerged on Newcastle's pursuit of Sandro Tonali, with The Athletic's David Ornstein revealing that w are 'close to an agreement' with AC Milan.

He reports that the deal is in the region of €70m and is subject to a final round of negotiations with the Serie A giants.

After launching an initial bid worth €50m - as reported late last night - Ornstein reveals that the 'situation has progressed' following 'face-to-face' negotiations in Milan today.

Tonali is believed to be Eddie Howe's top midfield target and would represent a huge coup for the club, with the 23-year-old Italian a key player in Milan following their recent run to the Champions League semi-finals.

Should he sign on the dotted line at St James' Park, it could represent a club-record deal on Tyneside, coming close to the £60m fee paid for Swedish striker Alexander Isak.