Rival PL team opens club-to-club talks to snatch midfield target from under United’s nose – David Ornstein

Tottenham Hotspur have made a major move in an effort to win the race for Manchester United midfield target Sandro Tonali, The Athletic’s David Ornstein has revealed. Tonali interest United have wrapped up a deal with Atalanta for Ederson but that’s just the start of the club’s midfield rebuild. At least two more top-class midfielders are expected before the close of the window, with United keen on having quality depth in the middle of the park ahead of their participation in the Champions League next season. In addition to the likes of Elliot Anderson, Carlos Baleba, Adam Wharton and Mateus Fernandes, United have also been heavily linked with Tonali. It’s looking increasingly likely that Tonali’s time at Newcastle has come to an end, more so after the club’s failure to secure Champions League qualification. His agent pitched him to Arsenal in January, but Newcastle refused to sanction the exit, given the lack of time to find a replacement. In addition to United, Manchester City and Tottenham have also been mentioned to be admirers of Tonali. It’s believed that City’s interest in Tonali is completely separate to their pursuit of Anderson. A return to Italy for Tonali has also been mooted. Newcastle are resigned to losing Tonali, although they remain adamant that he will leave for nothing less than £100m. There have been suggestions that United are prepared to meet this valuation. More recently, a report covered by The Peoples Person claimed that United told Newcastle they do not intend to enter the race for Tonali’s signature. Ornstein has now issued an update, revealing that Tottenham have opened talks with the Magpies to try and strike an agreement for the Italy international. Tonali latest Ornstein writes, “The north London club are vying with Manchester City to sign Tonali if he leaves St James’ Park — but by making club-to-club contact, it steps up the pursuit and underlines their intent to strike a deal.” “Discussions between the 26-year-old midfielder’s representatives and both suitors continue, as they attempt to strike an agreement on personal terms.” The report further states, “Spurs will hope that a high salary offer, head coach Roberto De Zerbi pushing for the transfer and the appeal of London may help swing the situation in their direction.” Ornstein also confirms that Newcastle do indeed want at least £100m to sanction Tonali’s sale. Whether this new development jolts United into action remains to be seen, though it appears they are not pushing particularly hard for Tonali. The 26-year-old made 53 appearances for Newcastle in all competitions last season, contributing three goals as they finished 12th in the Premier League. Feature image Carl Recine 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!