Manchester City are considering a move for Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali as an alternative to Elliot Anderson, with talks for the Nottingham Forest player proving difficult, according to Fabrizio Romano. City remain in active negotiations with Forest for Anderson, and have reportedly agreed personal terms with the player, but Forest are holding out for a fee exceeding £100million.
This valuation has prompted City to explore other options, with Tonali emerging as a ‘strong’ plan B. The Italian international has also attracted interest from Arsenal and Manchester United, both of whom are seeking midfield reinforcements this summer. United are understood to have admired Tonali previously, with Michael Carrick a known admirer, and INEOS are monitoring the situation.
Tonali joined Newcastle from AC Milan last year for a fee of £60million, becoming a key figure in Eddie Howe’s midfield. However, sources indicate that Newcastle may be willing to consider offers in the region of £75million, though the player’s preference would reportedly be a return to Serie A should he leave. This presents a potential obstacle for both Manchester clubs.
Despite the interest in Tonali, Manchester City are continuing to push for a deal to bring Anderson to the Etihad Stadium. A second, significantly increased bid is expected imminently as they attempt to secure the England international before his potential involvement in the upcoming World Cup. The club are determined to complete the Anderson deal, but are preparing for the possibility of needing to turn their attention to Tonali if Forest remain firm on their asking price. Securing either player would bolster City’s midfield options ahead of their title defence.
Manchester United have already made progress in the transfer window with the signing of Atalanta’s Ederson, but are still aiming to add at least two midfielders this summer.
