Manchester United are preparing for a big summer transfer window, with the aim of significantly strengthening their midfield. The English club are planning a double move for Newcastle United's Sandro Tonali and Atalanta's Ederson.
Under the guidance of Michael Carrick, the Red Devils are building a squad for a return to the Champions League next season. The club's leaders want to provide the coach with the reinforcements he needs to compete on several fronts.
According to Sky Italia, Tonali has been identified as one of the main targets for the midfield. The former Milan player has been a key figure for Newcastle, making 53 appearances in all competitions this season, including 11 appearances in the Champions League.
However, with Newcastle expected to remain outside the European zone, United hope to convince the Italian midfielder with the opportunity to play at the highest continental level at Old Trafford.
A move for Tonali is not expected to be easy. Newcastle are reportedly not planning to sell one of their key players to a direct Premier League rival. United value the Italian's technical quality, composure and consistency, but it could take a huge bid to convince the club to leave St James' Park.
In addition to Tonali, Manchester United are also keeping a close eye on Atalanta's Ederson. The Brazilian midfielder has had a brilliant season in Bergamo, making 41 appearances, scoring three goals and providing two assists. At 26, he is seen as a player in the prime of his career and is expected to leave the Italian club after four successful years.
United are not alone in the race for him. Atletico Madrid have long been linked with the former Salernitana player. However, according to journalist Nicolo Schira, Manchester United are ready to offer €45m to bring the Brazilian to England.
Atletico are said to have agreed personal terms with the player but have yet to meet Atalanta's financial demands. This could pave the way for United to step in.
Strengthening the midfield has become a priority for the English club. With Casemiro set to leave at the end of the season, the recruitment team are looking for energetic players capable of implementing Carrick's style of play. Ederson's versatility and Tonali's ability to distribute the ball are seen as an ideal combination to get United back into the race for major trophies.
The club are keen to complete key deals before the start of pre-season. By targeting established players from the Premier League and Serie A, the board believes they can reduce the risk of big-money transfers and add immediate quality to the squad.
Should Tonali's move fail, United have also prepared alternatives. One of the names long-rumoured is Brighton's Carlos Baleba, who is seen as a natural successor to Casemiro. The Cameroonian midfielder has been on the radar of scouts for several months.
Meanwhile, other names such as Adam Wharton and Elliot Anderson also remain on the club's list. The aim is for Carrick to have a stronger and deeper squad, capable of coping with the busy pace of the Premier League and Champions League next season. /GazetaExpress/
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