Arsenal have reportedly stepped up their pursuit of Sandro Tonali, opening talks with Newcastle United in an attempt to beat Manchester United to the highly-rated midfielder’s signature this summer.
Manchester United are expected to reshape their midfield ahead of the new season, with plans to bring in at least two — and possibly three — central midfielders. Several names have already been linked with a move to Old Trafford, and the club’s shortlist is beginning to take shape.
One option under serious consideration is Ederson of Atalanta, although United are still weighing up whether to fully commit to a deal. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano recently suggested the club want clarity on their more ambitious targets before making a final decision.
Among those bigger names is Aurélien Tchouaméni, who remains a dream target for the Red Devils. Reports from Spain claim a major offer has already been submitted as United continue exploring elite midfield additions.
Another player admired internally is Elliot Anderson, but according to reports, he is not the preferred choice of manager Michael Carrick.
Instead, Carrick is said to be pushing hardest for Tonali. Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio recently revealed the Newcastle midfielder is the manager’s top priority in central midfield.
The problem for Manchester United is the price tag.
Romano has previously described a move for Tonali as “really expensive,” with Newcastle believed to value the Italian at anywhere between €100 million and €116 million (£86m–£100m). That figure alone could make negotiations extremely difficult.
However, United may now face an even bigger obstacle — competition from Arsenal.
According to reports from Italy, Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta has already opened discussions with Newcastle over a potential deal for Tonali. The Gunners are believed to be actively exploring the financial details and conditions required to bring the midfielder to the Emirates.
The interest comes at a crucial time for Newcastle. There has long been speculation surrounding a “gentleman’s agreement” between Tonali and the club, allowing him to consider offers from Europe’s elite if Newcastle failed to qualify for the Champions League.
That situation has now become significant after Eddie Howe’s side missed out on not only Champions League football, but European competition altogether.
With Arsenal preparing for another major Premier League title push and Manchester United desperate to rebuild, Tonali could quickly become one of the biggest transfer battles of the summer.
