Bryan Robson has warned Manchester United that Newcastle United could block their attempt to sign Sandro Tonali this summer. The 25-year-old Italian midfielder is one of several names on United's shortlist as they search for a replacement for Casemiro, who will leave Old Trafford when his contract expires in June.
Speaking on the Talk Of The Devils podcast, Robson said: 'There's always quality players up there [in the north east] and you just hope that when your scouts see these players, you actually capture them.' He added that Newcastle, with their financial resources and full stadiums, may be reluctant to sell a player of Tonali's calibre.
Tonali, who cost Newcastle £55million from AC Milan in 2023, is under contract until 2029. He missed 10 months due to a suspension for breaching gambling rules. Newcastle boss Eddie Howe believes Tonali is committed to the club, saying: 'After I had the chat with Sandro, I think the biggest thing I look for is the commitment to training.'
United are also reportedly interested in ex-Newcastle star Elliot Anderson and Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton. However, Robson cautioned that transfer fees could be prohibitive or clubs may simply refuse to sell.
