“Seems to be ticking those boxes”: Rio Ferdinand urges United to ditch Tonali chase for “wonderful” all-rounder

Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has strongly suggested that the club has a straightforward call to make between Sandro Tonali and Elliot Anderson. Tonali vs. Anderson United are expected to prioritise midfield reinforcements in the upcoming window and at the moment, it appears Tonali and Anderson are the leading candidates to be the club’s marquee signing. Casemiro is set to leave the club, having announced his departure in January. There is also uncertainty over the future of Manuel Ugarte, who has struggled to have an impact at Old Trafford. A report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that Tonali is United’s priority target, with Bruno Fernandes also approving a swoop for the Italian. Tonali is believed to be keen on parting ways with Newcastle.  Newcastle’s chances of Champions League qualification are fading and Tonali is keen to take the next step in his career elsewhere. Meanwhile, a separate report claimed that United are prepared to go all out to secure Anderson’s services. The England international has emerged as one of the best and most consistent midfielders in the Premier League over the past two seasons. Manchester City are widely seen as favourites for his signature but United remain in the running. As the discussion over which player is more suited to United continues to intensify, Ferdinand has identified Anderson as the ideal candidate for the role. Ferdinand’s verdict Speaking on the Rio Ferdinand Presents podcast, Ferdinand remarked, “At the start of the season everyone was talking about [Carlos] Baleba, but he seems to have dipped a little bit in terms of form.” “Elliot Anderson, he seems to have jumped to the front of the queue. I think he’s a wonderful player. I think Elliot Anderson is the right type not only of player but character, I think he’d be a good addition to the squad.” “But I just think the type of midfielder United need is somebody who is a bit more all-action, who can cover ground, who is dynamic, who is robust, strong, who can drive a team. Right now, Anderson seems to be ticking those boxes.” “But I think there are a few other young guns out there – I won’t mention their names yet because I don’t want anyone else to get on that scent.” On United’s priorities this summer, Ferdinand continued, “If I was the club, my priorities would be two central midfielders, one who starts and maybe a younger one who you can blood in here and there around Bruno [Fernandes], Kobbie [Mainoo] and the one you bring in.” “I would also go for another forward, a younger one who is going to be more of a back-up to what we’ve already got. And I would go for a full-back. That’s it.” “I know you can say you want 10 new players and most positions can be improved, but I don’t think you need a huge revamp, it’s still a lot, but that’s realistic.” United return to action on 13 April when they welcome historic rivals Leeds United to Old Trafford. Featured image Gareth Copley via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!