The pair were seen in conversation at the end of City's Carabao Cup semifinal win against the Toon.
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Amid talk of Arsenal and Chelsea chasing an end of season deal for Tonali, Guardiola was asked about his exchange with the midfielder.
"What did I say," began Guardiola.
"My Italian is perfect, so that's why I can communicate with him. And we have an incredible friend in common from Brescia, Edoardo Piovani.
"And every time we are connected, I know his father some time ago and all the time we met we talked about his experience in Milan, the supporters, and how happy he is in Newcastle.
"He's a really, really top player, top, top, top player!"