Manchester United are reportedly making their presence felt in the transfer market before the window has even opened this summer, having already secured Champions League qualification for next season. The club are back in Europe’s premier competition after a two-year absence, and the return of continental football following last term’s complete absence can only bolster their recruitment prospects.
Midfield is set to be their primary area of focus, with several signings required in that department. Casemiro has been confirmed as departing the club, while Manuel Ugarte could also be heading for the exit door. There is no shortage of options available both within the Premier League and further afield. Here, Express Sport examines the key headlines surrounding United.
Sandro Tonali is available for transfer and will depart Newcastle this summer, according to Corriere della Sera. The Italian outlet claims that United are leading the race to sign the midfielder.
Newcastle are expecting a substantial offer from a Premier League club, with the Red Devils said to be ahead of their English rivals in the running.
United would be keen to bring Tonali to Old Trafford, with the player also open to the move. As an Italian plying his trade abroad, several Serie A clubs have been linked with the boyhood Milan supporter, though Newcastle’s valuation appears beyond the reach of the likes of Juventus.
Reports suggest a deal for Tonali would cost considerably more than £70million, with other Italian outlets claiming the fee could reach £87m.
United have registered their interest in Christos Tzolis over recent weeks, according to Gazet van Antwerpen. Aston Villa and Juventus are also reported to have done likewise, though the publication suggests United’s interest has been particularly keen.
Both Premier League clubs have made enquiries regarding the Club Brugge player. Tzolis has netted 19 goals and contributed a further 24 assists across 49 appearances in all competitions, with three matches still remaining in the Belgian Pro League champions’ play-offs.
There is understood to be a general acceptance in Bruges that the Greece international will be departing this summer. Crystal Palace tabled a £28million bid 12 months ago, but his club are now determined that any transfer should set a new Belgian record.
The current benchmark stands at £34million, the fee Milan agreed to pay Brugge for Ardon Jashari last summer. Having held firm in their demand to receive more for the Switzerland international than they did for Igor Thiago, it appears that figure will serve as the starting point for any negotiations.