Man Utd now identify £87m star as prime target to replace Casemiro - report

Manchester United have identified Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali as one of the top picks to replace Casemiro this summer, according to Tuttosport.

The Red Devils are expected to pursue a replacement for Casemiro, who will formally leave the club when his contract concludes at the end of the campaign.

United have been linked with multiple names, including Elliot Anderson and Carlos Baleba, but Tuttosport cite that Tonali is a prime target for the Red Devils.

The Italian publication write that ‘everyone wants Tonali’ and go on to mention that Arsenal and United are in ‘pole position’ to land his services this summer.

Arsenal were heavily linked with the Italian on deadline day last month, and they are planning to make a ‘new push’ for the 25-year-old at the end of the season.

Tonali’s representative, Giuseppe Riso, was reportedly in the stands to watch Arsenal play Brighton & Hove Albion. Sporting director Andrea Berta is a huge admirer.

Meanwhile, United also require a successor to Casemiro. The former AC Milan star has been earmarked as one of the ‘top picks’ to replace the Brazil international.

Tuttosport cite that a transfer could be done for €100 million (£87m) this summer.

Tonali may not be a perfect fit for Man Utd

The Italian has established himself as one of the best midfielders in the Premier League and recently starred against the Red Devils despite the Magpies going down to 10 men.

The Brescia graduate caught the eye with his tireless work rate. He made five recoveries and two interceptions, and also created two big chances for the Tyneside outfit.

Despite this, he had a passing accuracy of only 77 percent in 89 minutes. He won one ground duel and was guilty of losing possession on 13 occasions in the 2-1 victory at St James’ Park.

Looking at his season statistics, Tonali averages only 37 passes per game. In our view, the Italian ace would be a good fit for the Red Devils as a number eight rather than as a defensive midfielder.

If United are eyeing a marquee number six, they should focus on someone who is better with the ball at his feet and can win a significantly higher number of duels from the deep-lying position.

Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson appears to be the perfect signing for the Red Devils. He recently produced a midfield masterclass at Manchester City and capped the display with a late equaliser.

The Englishman could be signed for a lesser fee (£75m) than Tonali in the next transfer window.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com

Article written by Sri Aswin .