Manchester United are closing in on a move for Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali, according to reports emerging from Italian and British media outlets this week.
Italian outlet TuttoMercatoWeb, as reported by Sky Sports, claims United are close to completing a deal for the 26-year-old Italian international midfielder.
United are also said to be finalising a separate move for Atalanta midfielder Ederson, suggesting the club plans a significant midfield rebuild ahead of next season.
Juventus have also registered interest in Tonali, but the Italian club currently cannot match the financial package the player is seeking from potential suitors.
That reported shortfall from Juventus appears to leave United in a stronger negotiating position as they push to secure the former AC Milan man.
Tonali has established himself as a valued presence at Newcastle since his move to the Premier League, with the Italian bringing intensity, intelligence and work rate to the team’s midfield.
United’s midfield situation has created urgency around new signings, with Casemiro set to leave and Manuel Ugarte’s future at the club remaining highly uncertain heading into the window.
Sky Sports reported that Atalanta are seeking around 45 million pounds for Ederson, a Brazilian midfielder known for his pressing ability, power and ball-winning qualities in central areas.
The Sun reported that United are confident of completing a double midfield swoop involving both Tonali and Ederson, with manager Michael Carrick keen to rebuild around a stronger engine room.
Newcastle are not expected to sell Tonali at a discount, with some reports indicating a fee of around 80 million pounds or more could be required to secure his departure from the club.
The potential cost of signing both players simultaneously represents a major financial commitment for United, particularly given the reported fees attached to each individual transfer target.
Adam Wharton, Tyler Adams, Alex Scott, Ayoub Bouaddi and Christos Mouzakitis also feature on United’s list of midfield targets as the club casts a wide net across European leagues.
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