Sandro Tonali has told Italian reporters he's excited about his move to Newcastle.

The midfielder was back in Italy yesterday after being presented by Newcastle as their new signing on Tyneside.

Speaking at Milan airport, Tonali said: “Positive.

“I met people who wanted me at all costs. They were as positive as they were before I got there.

“The most difficult choice of my career but one which had to be made now.

“Milan welcomed me like a son and I will be thankful to them for the rest of my life, I will never forget it. I love all my teammates, I will always be their fan because they are golden people. It was a choice I had to make and I made it at the right time."

Tonali also said of sacked director Paolo Maldini: “Maldini is a very important figure,": he said. “He helped me a lot, especially in the first year and took me under his wing. This year the paths have split, but he will remain a massive figure for all the players. I'll thank him forever."