Manchester United are reportedly making moves in the transfer market before the window even opens this summer, having already secured Champions League qualification for next season. The club returns to Europe's top competition after a two-year absence, and the prospect of European football is expected to bolster their recruitment efforts.
Midfield Overhaul Planned
Midfield will be the primary focus for Manchester United, with multiple signings needed in that area. Casemiro is confirmed to be leaving the club, and Manuel Ugarte could also depart. There are numerous options available both in the Premier League and abroad, and here we look at the top headlines surrounding United.
Tonali 'Up for Sale'
Sandro Tonali is up for sale and will leave Newcastle United this summer, according to Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera. The report claims that Manchester United are in pole position to sign the midfielder. Newcastle are expecting a massive offer from a Premier League club, with United reportedly further ahead than other English sides.
United would be ready to welcome Tonali, who is said not to be overlooking them as an option. As an Italian playing abroad, there are Serie A clubs interested in the former AC Milan fan, but Newcastle's asking price is too high for the likes of Juventus. Reports suggest it would cost much more than £70 million to agree a deal for Tonali, with other Italian outlets claiming he could cost £87 million (€100 million).
United Eye Record Deal
Manchester United have shown interest in Christos Tzolis over the past few weeks, according to Gazet van Antwerpen. Aston Villa and Juventus are also said to have done the same, but the publication claims that United, in particular, has made enquiries. Sport Witness adds that both Premier League clubs have contacted Club Brugge about the player.
Tzolis has scored 19 goals and assisted another 24 across 49 appearances in all competitions, with three more matches to go in the Belgian Pro League champions' play-offs. There is an acceptance in Bruges that the Greece international will leave this summer. Crystal Palace offered £28 million a year ago, but Club Brugge now wants any move to be a Belgian record transfer. The current record stands at £34 million, which AC Milan paid for Ardon Jashari last summer. After sticking to their stance on receiving more for Tzolis than they did for Igor Thiago, that figure will be the starting point for any negotiation.
