Newcastle confirmed the arrival of Tonali as their first signing of the summer on Monday amidst much fanfare.
His capture is being projected as a major coup for the club despite the big fee, which is expected to touch the figure of €80m, it has been suggested in Italy.
However, there is sadness at AC Milan over his departure as Tonali is a boyhood Rossoneri fan who rejected bigger offers to join the club three years ago.
And Novellino admitted that it was a hard blow to take as the midfielder has everything to become a real superstar.
However, he conceded that clubs with big money now dictate everything and AC Milan were not in a position to reject such a big offer.
The former AC Milan star told Italian outlet Tutto Mercato: “Tonali’s departure was heavy [to take].
“He has it all.
“Unfortunately, today the big money clubs are the masters.
“It was difficult to say no to such a big offer.”
Newcastle are hopeful that Tonali will make a massive impact on the pitch and grow with the club going forward.
