Sandro Tonali has wasted little time in embracing the attention that comes with being the newest big-money signing for Newcastle United. The 23-year-old posed for Toon fans just moments after he had touched down on Tyneside from Milan.
As dozens of fans waited outside of St James' Park for the midfielder's arrival on Wednesday, two lucky fans bumped into Tonali as the Italian international set about laying down some roots in the North East - by instantly going to view a house to live.
The former AC Milan star happily posed for pictures with the youngsters - Thomas and Mia. It's said Tonali speaks 'perfect English,' which will please Toon fans who had questioned whether he'd have to learn the language.
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Thomas told Chronicle Live: "He was great - he was friendly and he just loves the fans. I was nervous [to meet him]. It was just mad. Since the takeover everything has gone bonkers really. I just said welcome to Newcastle United."
Fans were left disappointed on Wednesday after Tonali headed to the training ground for the first shots of him in and black and white shirt. With a school prom taking place at St James' Park, the flurry of cars that made its way under the stadium - including a White Hummer Limousine - prompted mad dashes from supporters hopeful the new signing was pulling up. There was also one young fan, Ethan, who had waited patiently with a sign - written in Italian - asking if he could get a photo with Tonali.
But as it was Tonali did not visit the ground until Thursday morning. Dozens of fans were back at St James' Park to see him pull in and were left happy with just a fleeting glimpse of their new hero.
Tonali has signed a five-year deal with United with an option of a sixth. Having competed with the Italian U21s just days after the end of the Serie A campaign, he's now set for a break before joining up with his new teammates ahead of pre-season.
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