Newcastle fans impressed by Sandro Tonali's 'elite mentality' after first Newcastle interview

Sandro Tonali may have only been at Newcastle a few days but he has already won over a large percentage of the Toon Army.

Tonali, 23, became the second-most expensive signing in the club's history when he joined them in a £55m move from AC Milan on Monday.

The Italy international has signed a five-year deal with Newcastle in a major transfer coup for the Premier League club.

Some have questioned why Tonali has swapped Milan for Newcastle, given the fact both clubs will compete in the Champions League next season.

Meanwhile, others joked that he would be on the first plane back to Italy after arriving in the UK to blustery conditions earlier this week. Check out the video below.

However, Tonali looks to have immediately settled on Tyneside and says he can't wait to get started under Eddie Howe.

Speaking to the club's media for the first time, Tonali said: "The ambition of every player is to come to a team and win. I believe the first thing you should do is never stop, and them aim to win.

"This is everyone's goal. To try and win as soon as possible."

When asked if he is looking forward to playing at St James' Park, Tonali added: "We're almost there and I know it will be a great emotion.

"I am waiting for this moment and I hope it will come very soon."

Newcastle fans have already been won over by Tonali and his determination to succeed in English football.

"Love the way he speaks. Annoyed he has to wait to start. Winning Mentality. Guy is going to be a BOSS," posted one fan on Twitter.

Another added: "Cannot wait to be seeing him lift trophies with us, the mindset of him and the rest of #NUFC is changing to a WINNER'S mentality."

While a third posted: "Yep, he's got the ELITE mentality that Howe and the Owners look for with our signings. #Tonali will fit right in here at #NUFC."

Tonali could make his debut for Newcastle when they take on neighbouring Gateshead in their first pre-season friendly on July 15.

Eddie Howe's side face Aston Villa in their opening game of the new Premier League season on August 12.

Featured Image Credit: NUTV & Newcastle FC

Topics: Newcastle United, Sandro Tonali, Premier League, Football, Fan Reactions

Rory O'Callaghan

Rory O'Callaghan is Editorial Lead at SPORTbible. He has previously worked for Sky Sports News, MailOnline and Reach covering football, cricket, boxing and MMA. Tested daily as a Liverpool fan in a Manchester office.

@rory_ocallaghan