- Manchester United ‘ready’ with opening bid for Newcastle midfielder
- Long-standing interest in Italian to replace Casemiro
- Other Premier League sides also interested in transfer
Manchester United are preparing to ruffle some feathers in the transfer market. INEOS are ready to go big for the first time, as they hunt for a marquee summer signing.
The Red Devils have been contemplating exactly who from their shortlist should replace Casemiro. The likelihood is that any transfer will unequip a fellow Premier League club, given the preference to buy from within England.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his recruitment team are ready to launch a massive opening bid, aiming to wrap up a significant transfer before pre-season begins in July.
United Prepare Tonali Bid
According to a report by TEAMtalk, Manchester United are prepared to launch a bid worth between £70m and £80m for Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali. Following Newcastle’s failure to secure European football for 2026/27, the Italian international is expected to leave St James’ Park this summer. The Magpies have already seen winger Anthony Gordon exit for German champions Bayern Munich.
The 26-year-old featured 53 times for Eddie Howe’s side in 2025/26, including appearances in the Champions League against the likes of PSG and FC Barcelona. An exit in the World Cup qualification playoffs against Bosnia means that Tonali and Italy will not be fetauring in the 2026 World Cup.
Previous reports from TEAMtalk have put forward interest from rivals Manchester City, too. Arsenal were also linked with the midfielder last January. The latest report highlights Tonali as United’s priority, but other names like Matues Fernandes and Elliot Anderson have also been linked to Old Trafford.
Premier League Interest Could Prove Tough Competition
An opening bid of £70m to £80m is a strong offer, but it might not be enough to close the deal. Newcastle highly values Tonali and they are expected to hold out for at least £100m. However, if the Italian actively pushes for the transfer, Newcastle’s stance could soften given that the player is “ready to leave” Tyneside.
United must remain wary of other competition. Arsenal’s reported interest is equally a big threat to INEOS’ plans. Convincing Tonali to reject the Gunners would be difficult given that Mikel Arteta’s side are the reigning Premier League champions after winning the 2025/26 league title.
If United do pull it off, Tonali represents the perfect long-term replacement for Casemiro. Combined with the expected transfer of Ederson, securing Tonali would give United incredible midfield depth. However, other options such as Fernandes, given West Ham United’s vulnerability after relegation, could be a more feasible option financially.
