Newcastle United's club journalist Craig Hope has written a column stating that Manchester United will make a bid for Sandro Tonali this summer.
The journalist wrote: “This may not be the news regular readers of this column want to hear, much like last year's rumors linking Alexander Isak with Liverpool, but the prospect of Tonali joining Manchester United has gained significant momentum in recent days.”
“In fact, according to my sources, Manchester United are expected to make a formal offer to Newcastle United after the end of this season. United have three midfield targets this summer, but it is understood that Tonali has overtaken Elliot Anderson and Adam Wharton to become their top priority. While Anderson is highly regarded, he is more likely to join Manchester City.”
“Interestingly, Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes is also said to be extremely impressed with Tonali and has expressed his support for the deal.”
“Newcastle United have become aware of Manchester United's intentions. Although Tonali himself has not shown restlessness about leaving or explicitly expressed a desire to depart, repeated remarks from his agent promoting a transfer in recent times have been noticed by the club. However, with the Italian having three years remaining on his contract plus an additional 12-month option to extend, Newcastle hold an extremely strong negotiating position regarding any potential transfer fee discussions.”
“Unlike Alexander Isak's situation last year, the current Newcastle hierarchy is no longer in a power vacuum. The handling of Isak's potential sale back then was a complete disaster, and its negative impacts are still being felt today. In contrast, Sporting Director Ross Wilson understands well that the club must make deals to create room for development and has learned the lessons from 12 months ago. If Tonali ultimately expresses a desire to leave—given Manchester United will offer a substantial pay raise and Champions League qualification—Newcastle will consider the option that best serves the club's interests.”
“Despite Tonali being linked with Barcelona, Real Madrid, Arsenal, and Manchester City in recent weeks, information I've received in the past 48 hours indicates that Manchester United are leading the race. Meanwhile, Manchester United are not currently considering a move for Newcastle captain Bruno Guimarães.”
