Former Manchester United defender Danny Simpson has urged the Red Devils to sign Arsenal target Sandro Tonali from Newcastle United. He believes that the Italian is the ideal replacement for Casemiro this summer.
Casemiro has confirmed he will leave Manchester United at the end of the season. The Brazilian's contract expires in the summer, and they have agreed to part ways, four years after joining from Real Madrid.
Speaking to Metro, Simpson said that Tonali has all the qualities needed to replace Casemiro and succeed at Manchester United. He believes that the former AC Milan star will fit in easily at Old Trafford and work well with Kobbie Mainoo on the pitch. He said:
"I think Tonali would work really well in that United midfield. I think he would complement Kobbie Mainoo really nicely, because he gets about the pitch so well. Obviously, he’s been a top player for Newcastle. He’s good on the ball, he’s strong, he’s physical, he’d be a brilliant player in there in many regards. Also, he’s the type of player that I think could wear a Man Utd shirt. It’s not easy, that, and I feel like he could wear it with the pressure and deal with it. He could definitely slot in there."
Tonali was linked with a move to Arsenal on deadline day after his agents offered to the Gunners. Newcastle United showed no interest in a sale, and the North London side also made no move.
Arsenal target happy at Newcastle United amid Manchester United calls
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has revealed that Sandro Tonali is happy at the club and has no plans to leave. The Magpies coach claimed that the Arsenal target is a key player in his squad and they intend to keep him.
"There was no intention for our side to lose Sandro at all. He’s such an integral part of what we’re doing. He’s very happy here, he loves playing for Newcastle and loves representing the city. As far as I’m aware we’ve got a player that’s an outstanding footballer and an outstanding person. He’s very happy here and he’s got a great relationship with me, his teammates."
Manchester United have been linked with Nottingham Forest star Elliott Anderson and Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton, while Brighton & Hove Albion's Carlos Baleba is also on their radar. The Red Devils are likely to make a decision on their main target after appointing a new manager.