Manchester United have shown interest in Newcastle United duo Sandro Tonali and Lewis Hall and it seems the Tyneside club may be forced to sell.
According to reports, Sandro Tonali is a priority for Manchester United, with Red Devils transfer chiefs viewing him as one of the top targets heading into the summer window.
However, Tonali reportedly has a price tag of £87 million. Likewise, United have shown interest in Lewis Hall, but because of his age and high potential, Newcastle will be demanding a big transfer fee.
Manager Eddie Howe has been clear about Newcastle’s financial problems, though, and it seems the Tyneside club may be reliant on sales to balance their books this summer.
Newcastle United v Manchester United - Premier League
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United have been linked with Tonali, Gordon, Thiaw, Hall and Guimarães. But which makes most sense?
Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali celebrates scoring against Aston Villa in the FA Cup.
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Newcastle United would suffer losses without player sales
Newcastle published their 2024/25 club accounts this week, and expert analysis from Swiss Ramble on X shows that they would have suffered a substantial £98 million loss were it not for “asset sales”.
In other words, Newcastle’s finances are becoming reliant on player sales to avoid hefty losses.
That was in a season where Newcastle achieved Champions League qualification. In 2025/26, they sit 14th in the Premier League table, so it seems unlikely they will have any prize money from UEFA.
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While Howe insists players are not for sale, Newcastle’s financial situation suggests the contrary.
Newcastle have sold their stadium to themselves to loophole the financial rules and balance their books, but in terms of sustainability, it seems player sales will be required.
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Manchester United v Real Sociedad de Futbol - UEFA Europa League 2024/25 Round of 16 Second Leg
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Man United can test Newcastle with early Sandro Tonali bid
Ideally, United will want to resolve their midfield situation early on in the summer.
While many other players will be focused on the World Cup, Tonali failed to qualify with Italy so he will be available for talks and could even join ready for United’s 2026 pre-season plans.
READ MORE: How Man Utd targets Sandro Tonali and Adam Wharton fared in Premier League showdown
According to iNews, Newcastle want Tonali’s future resolved early in the summer to avoid another drawn out transfer saga.
That could work in United’s favour to try and get a quick deal over the line for the midfield star.
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