Manchester United are prepared to offer between £70-80 million for Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali, according to reports emerging on Thursday. The move comes as Newcastle may be forced to sell players following their failure to qualify for European competition.
Tonali joined Newcastle from AC Milan last summer for a fee of around £60 million, becoming a key figure in Eddie Howe’s midfield. The Italy international made 34 appearances in all competitions for the Magpies last season, contributing four assists. However, reports in April suggested Newcastle could be willing to part with Tonali to fund a squad rebuild this summer.
Both Manchester clubs have identified midfield reinforcements as a priority this transfer window, with United already securing a deal for Atalanta’s Ederson Silva. Fabrizio Romano reports that United’s focus has now shifted to Tonali, with journalist Mark Brus claiming he is their ‘top target’ for a further midfield addition.
United are reportedly ahead of Arsenal and Manchester City in the race for Tonali because those clubs are currently focused on alternative targets. A source close to the deal indicated that INEOS, United’s new ownership group, are aligned with the pursuit of Tonali following the Ederson acquisition.
Newcastle are believed to be reluctant to sell and will reportedly demand a fee exceeding £100 million. United are expected to begin negotiations with an offer in the region of £70-80 million. Former Everton midfielder Don Hutchinson believes Tonali would be a “great” signing for United, but suggested Newcastle should attempt to convince him to stay, highlighting the potential for the club to build a successful team.
The outcome of the transfer could hinge on whether United can meet Newcastle’s valuation and convince Tonali to move to Old Trafford. Securing Tonali would significantly bolster United’s midfield options ahead of next season.
