Huge Sandro Tonali to United update as Bruno Fernandes approves move | OneFootball

A significant update has emerged on Sandro Tonali’s proposed summer switch to Manchester United.

Tonali wanted by United

Having spent the bulk of last summer’s budget on bolstering the attacking department, United are expected to prioritise midfield reinforcements in the upcoming window.

Casemiro’s confirmation that he will leave United at the end of the season, combined with the uncertainty surrounding Manuel Ugarte’s future at the club, has only heightened United’s need for midfield reinforcements.

A number of options have been mooted although a recent report indicated that the Red Devils have shortlisted three players to succeed Casemiro – Tonali (Newcastle), Elliot Anderson (Nottingham Forest) and Adam Wharton (Crystal Palace) were named as the final three.

Tonali has done well at Newcastle since joining the Tyneside outfit from AC Milan in 2023. He has been instrumental in Newcastle’s multiple Champions League qualifications, establishing himself as a midfield enforcer and a brilliant orchestrator of play.

Craig Hope of the Daily Mail has now issued a major update on Tonali to United. According to Hope, United are set to make a formal approach for Tonali at the end of the season. It’s understood that he is United’s priority target, and the Red Devils are leading the charge to secure his signature.

Hope has also detailed Newcastle’s position on the situation.

Tonali transfer latest

The Daily Mail state, “My sources now expect Manchester United to make a formal approach to Newcastle after the season’s end. The Old Trafford club have a midfield shortlist of three ahead of this summer, but Confidential understands Tonali is set to emerge as the main target ahead of Elliot Anderson and Adam Wharton. Anderson is admired greatly but he is likely to join Manchester City.”

“Interestingly, Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes is said to have added his support to an approach for Tonali, so impressed is the Portuguese by his midfield counterpart.”

“Newcastle are thought to be aware of Manchester United’s intent and, while Tonali himself has not agitated to leave or expressed an outright desire to do so, the repeated comments of his agent, who has touted a transfer, have been noted.”

The report further notes that Tonali has three years left on his contract, leaving Newcastle in a strong negotiating position.

Unlike last summer, when they lost Alexander Isak to Liverpool, Newcastle’s backroom structure is now in much better shape, so there is no danger of an executive void costing them in the transfer market.

If Tonali expresses a desire to exit St James’ Park and move to Old Trafford, Newcastle will consider their options and do what is best for them.

The Italy international has made 29 Premier League appearances for the Magpies, contributing two assists in that period.

Feature image Carl Recine via Getty Images

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