Manchester United have stepped up their interest in Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali ahead of the summer, according to reports in Spain.
The Old Trafford side have reportedly initiated contact with the Italy international’s representatives as they aim to bring in a new midfielder once the transfer window reopens.
United appear to hold interest in both Tonali and his Newcastle teammate Bruno Guimaraes, as they prepare to spend big on a new midfield star to replace Casemiro.
The Brazilian has announced he will be leaving Old Trafford at the end of his contract in June, bringing an end to his four-year spell at the club.
Sandro Tonali in action for Newcastle United against Manchester United in the Premier League
According to Spanish publication AS, United have shortlisted a number of potential midfield targets ahead of the summer window and are already making efforts toward new signings.
The Red Devils have reportedly made contact with both Guimaraes and Tonali, although Newcastle appear unlikely to easily entertain bids for either midfielder.
The Magpies proved difficult negotiators last summer, playing hardball for almost two months over Alexander Isak’s move to Liverpool before finally accepting a British record £125m bid.
Eddie Howe’s side are in a strong negotiating position for Tonali, who is under contract with the club until the end of the 2027/28 season.
United Could Face Competition for Tonali
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta
Several high-profile clubs appear to be monitoring Tonali’s situation ahead of the summer, after the midfielder was linked with a surprise Newcastle exit in the final hours of the winter window.
According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, the likes of United, Arsenal, and Juventus are all keeping close tabs on the Italy international, although the Serie A side appear as outsiders in the race.
Affording Tonali, who is reportedly keen on a move to United, could prove difficult for clubs outside the Premier League, as Newcastle have placed a reported £100m price tag on the 'phenomenal' midfielder.
For United, a deal in that region would make Tonali their most expensive signing ever, surpassing the £89m spent on Paul Pogba in 2016.
Tonali Transfer Destinations Assessed
Sandro Tonali
Amid growing buzz around Tonali’s future at Newcastle, we asked ChatGPT to evaluate the best transfer destinations for the Italian midfielder this summer:
Juventus – Ideal fit tactically and in a familiar league. He would likely be a guaranteed starter, get Champions League experience, and be central to the team’s midfield plans.
Manchester United – High-profile move with Premier League exposure and the chance to replace Casemiro. Adaptation to pace, physicality, and scrutiny could take time.
Arsenal – Fits possession-based, proactive system alongside Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard. Ball-carrying and pressing suit the style, but starts aren’t guaranteed due to squad depth.
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He could stay beyond the summer.