Man Utd draw up sensational £85m bid for elite Newcastle star
The summer transfer window is shaping up to deliver one of its most intriguing sagas as Manchester United prepare an audacious £85 million bid to pry Sandro Tonali away from Newcastle United.
The Italian midfielder’s remarkable resurgence after a turbulent debut season has made him one of the Premier League’s most coveted talents, with Juventus also circling for his signature according to reports from Corriere dello Sport.
Tonali’s journey from pariah to pivotal figure at St James’ Park reads like a footballing redemption arc. After serving a ten-month suspension for betting violations that limited him to just twelve appearances last campaign, the 24-year-old has rebounded spectacularly – anchoring Newcastle’s midfield with a blend of tenacity and technical mastery.
His contributions (five goals, three assists in 42 games) proved instrumental in ending the Magpies’ 56-year trophy drought through February’s Carabao Cup triumph while positioning them for potential Champions League qualification.
United’s interest speaks volumes about Tonali’s transformed reputation. Newly-appointed head of recruitment Christopher Vivell has identified the Italian international as the ideal midfield linchpin for Ruben Amorim’s anticipated revolution at Old Trafford.
The Red Devils view Europa League success as both a salvation for their dismal domestic campaign and a financial springboard for summer spending – with Tonali topping their wishlist should they conquer Tottenham in Bilbao.
Yet multiple obstacles stand between United and their target. Newcastle’s contractual leverage is formidable – Tonali’s deal runs through 2028 with no release clause, allowing the Magpies to demand a premium fee.
The club’s recent hardline stance on Alexander Isak (rebuffing £120 million approaches) demonstrates their willingness to play hardball with rivals.
Moreover, Juventus’ persistent interest offers Tonali an emotionally compelling alternative – a return to his homeland with Italy’s most storied club.
The midfielder himself may prove United’s greatest hurdle. Newcastle’s project under Eddie Howe – blending silverware ambition with a cohesive, upwardly-mobile squad – contrasts sharply with United’s current instability.
While the Red Devils languish in 15th domestically, Tonali has become the heartbeat of a Newcastle side establishing itself among England’s elite. His public embrace of Tyneside life and pivotal role in the club’s resurgence suggest money alone won’t precipitate an exit.
Financial realities further complicate United’s pursuit. Profit and Sustainability Rules constrain their spending power unless accompanied by significant player sales. With Newcastle under no pressure to sell and Juventus potentially offering Champions League football, United’s ability to outmuscle competitors financially appears limited despite their global commercial might.
As the transfer window approaches, this developing saga will test both clubs’ resolve. For Newcastle, retaining Tonali symbolizes their growing stature. For United, securing his signature would signal intent after a dismal season.
One truth emerges clearly – any club hoping to acquire Italian football’s reborn prince will need to pay a king’s ransom and convince him the grass is truly greener elsewhere.
Given Tonali’s current standing as Newcastle’s midfield crown jewel, that persuasion may prove the most formidable challenge of all.