Sandro Tonali update arrives from two local journalists - Good news despite rejected bid?

We've seen plenty of updates from Italy on Newcastle's pursuit of Sandro Tonali, but North-East reporters Mark Douglas (iNews) Craig Hope (The Mail) have both shared what their sources are saying on the AC Milan midfielder.

Douglas states that transfer activity on Tyneside 'has stepped up in recent days', with the club pushing to sign Tonali and fellow target James Maddison now a move for Nicolo Barella looks increasingly unlikely, unless Inter receive an “eye-watering offer".

He reports that we've had an opening offer of £40m rejected by AC Milan, but it's thought 'dialogue remains open' between the two clubs. It's also believed that Tonali's salary demands would NOT go beyond our current wage structure, making a move for the 23-year-old financially viable if we can agree a fee.

In his piece for The Mail, Craig Hope states that a contract worth £150,000 per week has been discussed with the Italian's representatives. He believes a move could accelerate in the 'coming days' if we can strike a deal with AC Milan, suggesting the transfer fee is the key obstacle left to overcome.

So, the good news is that talks are taking place between the two clubs, his wages won't go beyond our structure and Newcastle are pushing to make it happen. However, it seems our opening offer falls short of Milan's demands, with Hope also reporting that their asking price 'keeps on rising' during negotiations.

Over in Italy, MilanNews have also shared a picture (see below) of Tonali's agent meeting with AC Milan executives, suggesting serious meetings are taking place over the player's future.