- Man Utd handed Sandro Tonali boost
- Newcastle ready to sell the Italian
- Time to move on from Man City-linked Elliot Anderson
Manchester United must accept Elliot Anderson is headed for Manchester City and put their focus on signing another Premier League star. The Reds are in the market for at least two new midfielders this summer.
According to Italian outlet Corriere della Sera, United have been given the green light to swoop for Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali. It’s claimed that the Magpies’ financial situation means they are ready to sell the Italian.
A move to Old Trafford isn’t the only option for the 26-year-old as City are also in the race. But you’d expect them to cool such interest if they were to sign Anderson.
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Tonali to Man Utd?
United are looking to replace Casemiro, who departs in June when his contract expires. It’s a tough ask given how influential he’s been this season.
Turning to a Premier League midfielder is the right call, and Anderson and Tonali are two of the best in the top flight. Both have been superb during their stays at their respective clubs and look likely to be on the move this summer.
A lack of European football for Newcastle is surely pushing Tonali towards the exit door. Now, INEOS have been given a golden opportunity to sign the former AC Milan star.
The Tyneside giants reportedly value him at €100m (£87m), and that rules out a return to Italy. The price isn’t too hefty in comparison with Anderson who Nottingham Forest are thought to be demanding over £100m for.
Tonali has been a key man in the middle of the park for Eddie Howe ever since arriving at St James’ Park. This season, he has made 53 appearances across competitions, registering three goals and seven assists.
Why it makes sense
Newcastle’s reported valuation of Tonali is reasonable given the player has just over two years on his contract. Such a fee might also allow INEOS to sign a third midfielder, truly overhauling Carrick’s midfield.
Other names linked include West Ham United’s Mateus Fernandes and Brighton & Hove Albion’s Carlos Baleba. The club need strength in depth and bringing three top midfielders to Old Trafford is the way to do it ahead of a return to the UEFA Champions League.
Anderson is undoubtedly a dream signing and he showed the Reds just what he’d bring to the club in Carrick’s side’s 3-2 win over Forest. But paying over £100m for the former Newcastle man would take a large chunk out of the transfer budget.
