Not Anderson or Baleba: Romano confirms what INEOS are now thinking about signing two coveted PL midfielders | OneFootball

Fabrizio Romano has, unsurprisingly, played down any links between Manchester United and Alexis Mac Allister, but did confirm that a new Premier League midfielder is on INEOS’ shortlist.

The Old Trafford faithful have been well aware over the last few months that, in the lead-up to the summer transfer window, the club are heavily monitoring Elliot Anderson, Carlos Baleba and Adam Wharton.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL STRETTY NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES & BREAKING – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

Talks were held with Baleba in August last year to gauge the feasibility of a late deal being done. Despite the Cameroonian being open to the move, Brighton and Hove Albion made it clear he was off-limits this season, prompting United to put their interest on ice.

United sizing up Sandro Tonali pursuit amid Magpies uncertainty

(Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

While still keeping tabs on how the young trio are faring, United have also started considering whether Sandro Tonali would be a suitable fit in M16.

The Newcastle United star is widely expected to depart St. James’ Park this year following comments from his agent that suggested he was evaluating his future away from the Magpies.

Tonali, 25, is adamant about continuing to play in the Champions League for the coming seasons, and unless Newcastle pull off the unthinkable and win the competition in May, they face an uphill battle to qualify, given they’re currently 10th-placed in the league.

He would fit INEOS’ recent transfer stance of trying to acquire Premier League-proven signings, while the Italian also boasts a plethora of European experience due to the three years he spent with boyhood club AC Milan.

What Romano is hearing about Mac Allister, Tonali and others

(Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

Weighing in on United’s midfield conundrum last night, Romano said: “It has been a big story in England, with reports suggesting a possibility for Mac Allister to leave Liverpool and join Man United in the summer.

“To answer your questions, at the moment I am not aware of anything concrete or strong in terms of links between Man United and Mac Allister.”

He continued: “They have a shortlist with several names being considered and monitored. I have already told you, for example, that Elliot Anderson is appreciated.

“I also mentioned that Carlos Baleba was a top target with Ruben Amorim as coach, and we have to see what happens now that Amorim is no longer there. I told you as well that Sandro Tonali is appreciated by Man United, Arsenal and Juventus. There will be movement around these players.”

More Stories / Latest News

Not Anderson or Baleba: Romano confirms what INEOS are now thinking about signing two coveted PL midfielders

Feb 17 2026, 12:34

‘Standout’ PL star being actively targeted by United says Old Trafford is his favourite stadium to play in

Feb 17 2026, 11:19

“Too good” – Man Utd urged to promote 6’5″ powerhouse who bullied Man City

Feb 17 2026, 8:55