Manchester United are reportedly close to signing Atalanta midfielder Ederson – but he’s not the only one they’re in the process of protecting.
United have made it their main priority to strengthen their central midfield this summer. The need for players with Premier League experience seems to be at the top of the wish list.
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The club has been linked with Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton, Brighton & Hove Albion’s Carlos Baleba and West Ham United’s Mateus Fernandes, to name a few. But now they seem to be working hard to secure Brazilian star Ederson – a player who has never played in England.
However, as many as three new players could enter the midfield. The club has already told Manuel Ugarte that he is free to leave Old Trafford – after Casemiro’s exit was confirmed.
Fabrizio Romano: Agreement close – but not in the box yet
Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that a deal for United to sign Ederson is close. However, the Red Devils have yet to give the green light to complete the transfer, as they are still working on several midfield deals at the same time.
One of these deals appears to apply to Newcastle United star Sandro Tonali, according to reports from Italy.
Tonali also on his way to Old Trafford?
According to Tuttomercatoweb, United’s deal to sign Ederson from Atalanta is “almost complete” – worth up to €50 million including add-ons and bonuses.
But the Italian media comes up with a new update: United are also said to be “close to agreement” with Premier League rivals Newcastle United to sign Sandro Tonali.
The Italian international has long been heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford. If the reports from his home country are correct, it could now be getting closer.
€100 million for the “superstar”
Calciomercato previously reported that United boss Michael Carrick has instructed the club to make the Magpies’ “superstar” their first signing – after he himself was hired as permanent manager on Friday.
Newcastle are said to value the 26-year-old at €100 million.
United have been looking for an elite replacement for Casemiro, and Tonali fits that description perfectly.
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Better than Declan Rice
Tonali has solid Premier League and Champions League experience. He has proven that he is one of the best in his position in English football in recent seasons.
Earlier this season, United legend Paul Scholes stated that he believes the Italian is “better than Declan Rice” – which says it all about how highly he is ranked among his peers.
United naturally want to sign Tonali for a lower sum than the 86 million mentioned in Italy. The club are looking to completely rebuild their midfield – and find players to complement Kobbie Mainoo, who recently extended his contract at Old Trafford.
Tonali has exactly what United need
Tonali possesses the stamina, energy and quality with the ball to become exactly the player United need after Casemiro’s departure.
The question is no longer whether United will strengthen in midfield – but how many they will bring in. And whether Tonali will be the next superstar to arrive at Old Trafford.
