Manchester United have begun their midfield revamp by agreeing a deal for Atalanta star Ederson.
United could still sign at least two midfielders, potentially enabling manager Michael Carrick to build on last season’s success.
Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali is on United’s radar, with Carrick reportedly pushing for his signature. Manchester City and Arsenal are also interested in the Italian.
Journalist Ben Jacobs now claims that United are not expected to complete a deal for the Italian on current terms.
He told the United Stand: “Newcastle’s valuation is in excess of £100m, the wage is still high, the agent commissions are high as well.”
“Unless something in those categories changes to open the possibility of getting a deal done cheaper, then I’m not expecting Manchester United to do it on the terms that they think are currently in place, but if something drops, then of course the situation could change.”
Man United leading midfield targets revealed
Jacobs says Bournemouth’s Alex Scott and West Ham United’s Mateus Fernandes are now United’s top midfield targets.
He expects United to step up their interest in Fernandes soon, ruling out the possibility of negotiations dragging until late in the transfer window.
However, with West Ham demanding £80 million for the Portuguese, a deal may not be done soon, unless the London side change their stance.
United are also not ready to break the bank for Scott. The Mancunian giants believe they could sign the English midfielder for £60m.
Bournemouth are reluctant to sell Scott following his role in helping the club qualify for the UEFA Europa League. They would only sell him if his £80m valuation is met.
Fernandes and Scott would offer the needed depth and quality to United’s midfield.
They possess different qualities. Fernandes is a better passer, while Scott is a superior carrier of the ball.