Manchester United are hesitant about pursuing a deal for Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali due to the potentially high cost, according to Fabrizio Romano. The club has been assessing several midfield options as they prepare for a significant overhaul this summer, with Casemiro departing for Inter Miami and Manuel Ugarte attracting interest from elsewhere.
Initially, Elliot Anderson of Nottingham Forest was identified as a priority target for new manager Michael Carrick. However, reports from TEAMtalk indicate that Anderson has already agreed personal terms with Manchester City. Forest are reportedly seeking a fee in excess of £100 million for the player, a figure that has been deemed “really expensive” by United officials.
While Anderson was considered a key target, Gianluca Di Marzio suggests that Carrick actually prioritizes Tonali. Newcastle are expected to sell at least one player to comply with financial regulations, and Tonali has been linked with a move valued at around €100 million (£86 million) by United, though The Chronicle reports Newcastle’s asking price is closer to €115 million (£100 million).
Romano reports that factoring in Tonali’s salary demands, United now view the overall operation as “really expensive,” casting doubt on whether they will proceed with a formal offer. The club had representatives in Italy recently to discuss potential midfield targets, including Tonali and Atalanta’s Ederson, indicating they intend to bring in multiple reinforcements in that area of the pitch. United are also reportedly in advanced talks for Ederson, with the Brazilian international seen as a strong addition to the squad. This uncertainty surrounding Tonali’s price could shift United’s focus towards other options as they look to reshape their midfield ahead of next season.
