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“We didn’t sell him to Newcastle United because we needed to we sold him because it was an excellent offer but later receive a DEATH THREAT after the record transfer was successful”- AC Milan CEO Giorgio Furlani has claimed he received death threats over the sale of one Newcastle Star to Newcastle United.
AC Milan CEO Giorgio Furlani has revealed that he received death threats following the sale of Sandro Tonali to Newcastle United.
Tonali, a lifelong Milan fan, was a key figure at the club, having won Serie A in 2022 and reached the Champions League semi-finals the following year. His departure to Newcastle stunned many Milan supporters, who were angry at the club’s decision to accept the transfer fee.
Now, 18 months later, Furlani has spoken openly about the transfer during a presentation at Harvard Business School. While reports suggest Newcastle paid £55 million, Furlani claims the deal was worth £58 million, plus £8 million in potential add-ons.
“We didn’t sell him out of necessity; we sold him because it was an excellent offer,” said Furlani. “We earned €70 million plus a €10 million earn-out — the highest fee ever in Serie A. Thanks to that sale, we signed six new players and completely revamped the squad. We don’t sell because we have to; we sell opportunistically.”
Furlani also acknowledged the emotional toll of public criticism, revealing that he had been deeply affected by the backlash, including death threats following Tonali’s departure. “I’ve realized there’s no escaping what people say on TV or write in newspapers — it really hits you on bad days. And then there are even worse days, like when I receive death threats, for example after selling Tonali.”
Meanwhile, Tonali has made a strong impact at Newcastle, despite a setback earlier this season when he was hit with a 10-month betting ban. After returning in August, he quickly became an important player in the Magpies’ midfield. Most recently, Tonali made headlines with a brace in Newcastle’s 3-1 Carabao Cup victory over Brentford.
Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe expressed his happiness for Tonali after the game, praising his dedication and resilience. “Sandro has gone through a lot, including tough times with the ban. It’s great to see him enjoying his football now. Nights like tonight will strengthen the connection between him and the fans. I’m really pleased for him on a personal level,” Howe said.
