Recent reports suggest Manchester United are prepared to spend a “crazy sum” this summer to land top target Sandro Tonali.
According to sources, Newcastle United have valued Tonali at £100 million (€115m) and are not keen to sell the Italian international for anything below their valuation.
However, the Red Devils are rumoured to be preparing an initial bid of around £80 million, although Italian outlet Gazzetta Dello Sport claims they may be willing to match Newcastle’s asking price if required, or explore a potential swap deal involving the Reds’ midfielder and Newcastle target Manuel Ugarte.
The midfielder has reportedly been “specifically requested by Michael Carrick” and would be a “first-choice player” under the Manchester United boss.
With Tonali’s contract running until 2029 and Newcastle having already seen the departure of Anthony Gordon to Barcelona, the Magpies are under no immediate pressure to sell another key asset unless a significant offer arrives or the player pushes for an exit.
Despite this, Manchester United remain determined to prise away the 26-year-old midfielder, with interest from Arsenal and Manchester City also said to be growing.
Why Sandro Tonali Has Become Manchester United's Top Midfield Target
Following an impressive third-place finish in the Premier League last season, recently appointed permanent manager Michael Carrick is aiming to overhaul his midfield options for the upcoming campaign.
Old Trafford has already seen the departure of much-loved cult hero Casemiro following the expiry of his contract, while fellow midfielder Manuel Ugarte is heavily linked with a move away after failing to establish himself in Carrick’s team since his interim appointment in January.
According to Football Insider, Newcastle United have held a long-term interest in the Uruguayan and remain keen ahead of the summer window, raising the possibility of a swap deal between the clubs in like-for-like positions.
Manchester United had recently agreed a £35 million deal for Atalanta and Brazil midfielder Ederson, although his late involvement in Brazil’s 2026 World Cup plans has altered the timeline of the move.
Nevertheless, it is understood that two midfield additions remain a priority for the club, with any potential arrival of Tonali highlighting a clear shift in the middle of the park. A key contrast is between Tonali and long-standing midfielder Casemiro.
Whereas Casemiro typically operated as a more defensive presence, contributing through aerial duels and longer, more direct passes, Tonali is more of a No.8, box-to-box midfielder who presses with a higher intensity and links up closely with the play in attacking phases.
Such a signing would highlight Carrick’s intent to reshape Manchester United’s midfield.
Could Newcastle Be Forced Into Another Major Sale?
Turning attention to the north-east, the potential departure of the 26-year-old midfielder adds to Anthony Gordon’s recent move away to Barcelona for £69.3 million (€80m) including add-ons, with further exits possible such as Lewis Hall and Nick Pope.
However, having already raised close to £70 million this window and with new Squad Cost Ratio (SCR) regulations coming into force for Premier League clubs this summer - which Newcastle themselves voted for - the Magpies still appear to be in a strong position when it comes to managing outgoings.
Speaking with Sky Sports back in March, Newcastle chief executive David Hopkinson outlined the club’s summer strategy, saying: “Going forward, our strategy is to buy well and sell well. Buying well does not necessarily mean spending the most money.”
He added: “We haven't got an overall strategy with regard to players out, necessarily.
“We think through what players might or might not want to do this summer. But if an [Alexander] Isak-like scenario presents itself again, any player under contract is going to leave on our terms and we're going to maximise the opportunity that might represent for the club.”
Newcastle’s disappointing season and failure to secure European football could unsettle Tonali, despite his long-term contract at St James’ Park. The lack of continental competition may increase uncertainty over his future in the north-east.
If that situation develops, the midfielder could be forced to push for an exit, with Newcastle unlikely to stand in his way to avoid another Alexander Isak-style situation should a suitable offer arrive — potentially opening the door for Manchester United or others to swoop.
