Manchester United have informed Sandro Tonali’s representatives they are prepared to submit a formal offer for the Newcastle United midfielder this summer, according to reports from Tutto Mercato Web. The 26-year-old Italy international is valued by Newcastle at approximately €100 million (£86 million) including add-ons, with United identifying him as the primary replacement for Casemiro, who is set to depart Old Trafford as a free agent in June 2026. While Liverpool have long-standing interest in the former AC Milan star, United’s recent Champions League qualification has reportedly placed them at the front of the queue for a deal that would test Newcastle’s resolve following their 13th-place finish.
United’s tactical pivot and the Casemiro vacancy
The pursuit of Tonali aligns with a significant transition in the Manchester United midfield. With Casemiro’s high-wage contract expiring and Manuel Ugarte struggling to secure a regular starting role, caretaker manager Michael Carrick requires a proven technical operator to anchor his system. United’s interest has been bolstered by high praise from club legend Paul Scholes, who compared Tonali favourably to Arsenal’s £105 million signing Declan Rice. Speaking on the Overlap podcast, Scholes stated, "I think he's better than Declan Rice," highlighting Tonali's ability to dictate play from deep. United’s ability to offer elite European football, a luxury Newcastle will lack next season, is expected to be a decisive factor in negotiations.
Newcastle’s financial position and contract security
Despite the high valuation, Newcastle are in a strong negotiating position regarding Tonali’s longevity. As first reported by The Mag, the midfielder is under contract at St James' Park until June 2029, with the club holding an option to extend that deal until 2030—a protection measure reportedly formalised during his 2024 betting ban. However, Newcastle’s failure to secure European football for the 2026/27 campaign has led to suggestions of "strategic sales" to comply with PSR requirements. Reports from Fichajes previously suggested Liverpool were preparing an "offensive" for the player earlier this year, but United’s readiness to meet the £86 million package suggests they are now the most credible destination for the Italian if he remains in the Premier League.
Talks are expected to accelerate once the summer transfer window officially opens, with United keen to avoid a protracted saga before their pre-season tour.