Manchester United are preparing a summer move for Borussia Dortmund defender Julian Ryerson and have identified Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali as a top target, according to reports emerging from Germany and Italy. The club's new co-owners, INEOS, are said to be driving the recruitment plans as they look to rebuild key areas of the squad ahead of next season.
German outlet FussBall Daten reports that United are planning to make an initial official offer for Ryerson, who is valued by Dortmund at between €35 million and €40 million. The 28-year-old Norway international, primarily a right-back, has been deployed in various roles this season, including as a right winger, contributing 16 assists in 39 appearances across all competitions. The report states United scouts have given him a top rating for his discipline, crossing ability, and focus, seeing him as a versatile piece to add stability to their full-back rotation.
Meanwhile, attention is also turning to the midfield, where Casemiro is expected to depart. According to a report from TuttoJuve, Sandro Tonali has become the primary target to fill that void. The Italian international only joined Newcastle from AC Milan in the summer of 2023, but the report claims the Magpies are ready to sell the 25-year-old, whom they value at around €100 million. It is suggested that INEOS have made convincing Tonali a priority, despite previous indications that the player would prefer a return to Serie A, with Juventus, AC Milan, and Inter Milan all linked.
The pursuit of Tonali could develop into a direct contest with rivals Manchester City, who have also been credited with an interest. However, sources have previously indicated to TEAMtalk that Tonali's preference leans towards Italy. United's challenge will be to persuade him to reconsider a move to Old Trafford as part of their new project.
These potential incoming moves could be offset by a significant departure involving Borussia Dortmund. TEAMtalk's transfer insider Graeme Bailey reports that Jadon Sancho, currently on loan at Aston Villa from United, is closing in on a permanent return to Dortmund. Manager Niko Kovac is said to have spoken with the winger about his plans for next season, though Villa have not abandoned hope of securing him themselves. Sancho's departure would free up funds and squad space as United look to refresh their attacking options.
For Dortmund, losing Ryerson would mean parting with a key and adaptable component of their squad, but the reported fee would provide significant capital for their own rebuilding. For Newcastle, the potential sale of Tonali so soon after his arrival would represent a major statement, likely driven by financial fair play considerations and the chance to realize a large profit, allowing Eddie Howe to reinvest in his squad. United's dual focus on defense and midfield underscores the scale of the overhaul anticipated under INEOS leadership this summer.
