Latest reports are suggesting that Man United will not go for Sandro Tonali. Last summer, Manchester United had interest in Tonali. But they are now loosing their interest. This has happened due to the potential consequences of the transfer.
Why Sandro Tonali was shortlisted by Man United for upcoming summer window?
There will be a midfield overhaul at Manchester United in this summer. New defensive midfielders are required in the squad. Casemiro has officially announced his departure at the end of the season. He was a strong pillar in that midfield. After spending 4 seasons in England, the Brazilian will leave with a lot of memories.
Manuel Ugarte is unhappy for less game time. The 24-year-old will also seek a leave from the club. The Uruguayan couldn’t start ahead of Kobbie Mainoo and Casemiro. So, the Red Devils will be active in the summer transfer market for a defensive midfielder.
Man Utd have shortlisted several midfielders for the June transfer window. All of them have Premier League experience while some are EPL proven football players. Players like Carlos Baleba, Elliot Anderson, Mateus Fernandes, Bruno Guimares are all linked with the red side of Manchester. Italian midfielder, Sandro Tonali was also a target for them.
Tonali had joined Newcastle United from A.C. Milan for €60m in summer 2023. In these 3 seasons, the 25-year-old has proved his quality in the league. The Italian was phenomenal and consistent in Serie A for Milan.
After coming to England, he has been a starting figure in the Newcastle’s midfield. He is an all-rounder midfielder who is versatile and energetic. He is very technical and his defensive part of the game is very strong.
Sandro can play both as a box-to-box and deep lying midfielder. Scoring goals from long distances is a cherry on the top of his footballing traits.
Key Statistic:
Sandro Tonali has played for clubs like Newcastle, Milan and Brescia. In this time, he has scored 14 goals and provided 23 assists in 235 matches in all competitions, as per Statmuse.
Why Man United is shifting their interest away from Sandro Tonali?
According to reports, Man United sources suggest that the club have pulled themselves back from a potential transfer of Sandro Tonali. Last summer, he was their “main midfield target”. But at that time, the English club could not complete a deal with the Italian. The total cost of his contract’s demands was very high.
Players like Enzo Fernandez, Moises Caicedo and Declan Rice were sold in the Premier League. Their transfer fees was over €110m. The Magpies will try to sell Tonali in that price range. The midfielder has a contract up to 2029 with an option of another year.
Sandro has high work rate, intensity and ball carrying ability. But there is one important thing missing in his playstyle. With respect to his past performances, he does not score that much goals. This is a crucial criteria to be a Casemiro replacement.
Moreover, Tonali’s name was also in betting controversy in the past. He had served a ban from football for 10 months (October 2023- August 2024). The Azzurri was found guilty for betting on football matches. A massive club like Man United will not and should not entertain such personal disputes of players.
Media attention is 24/7 present around the club. Each and every action at Old Trafford is scrutinized. The club cannot take the risk of investing in a player who has off-field issues.
Who is the best alternative option for Man Utd right now?
There are several good midfielders in the Premier League. The name which is found in most of the reports is Elliot Anderson. The English midfielder has been consistent and brilliant for Nottingham Forest this season.
Man City is reportedly leading the race for the signing of the 23-year-old. Man United will try their level best to bring him to the Stratford End.
ENJOYED THIS STORY?
Add Football Express as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting
Subhabrata Pal
Subhabrata Pal is a junior football writer who has contributed articles covering key developments in football. His work focuses on match events, player performances, and the narratives that shape discussions among fans and the wider football community. Through his contributions to Football Express, Subhabrata produced football coverage aimed at keeping readers informed about important moments, tactical trends, and evolving storylines. His writing blends clear reporting with analytical insights to deliver engaging and informative content for football enthusiasts.
Recommended for you