United’s blockbuster plans of recruiting silky-smooth maestro faces two key obstacles – report

Manchester United’s hunt for Casemiro’s replacement is expected to be far from smooth, according to the latest reports. The Red Devils need an elite defensive midfielder to replace the Brazilian, and United had identified Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson as the answer to their problems. However, as things stand, Manchester City are in pole position for the Englishman, thereby forcing INEOS to look at alternatives. Newcastle United’s Sandro Tonali was considered the next best bet, with the Italian keen to leave St. James’ Park due to the lack of Champions League football next season. Sandro Tonali, a man in demand The Magpies are reluctant to part ways with the classy operator, but given their financial situation, a sale looks the most likely outcome. A return to Italy seems unlikely, with multiple Premier League teams chasing the former AC Milan ace’s signature, including City. Newcastle are unlikely to yield without a fight, and according to Talksport, Eddie Howe’s side are likely to demand £100 million to part ways with the 25-year-old. The Italy international also earns £150,000 gross per week, excluding bonuses (via capology), and United will be expected to offer him a substantial pay rise. Asking price and wage demands proving to be an obstacle Reporters Ben Jacobs and Alex Crook contend that United feel his price tag, coupled with his wage demands, are not good value for money. As a result, United do not view Sandro Tonali as their primary target. Unless his asking price comes down, a move seems unlikely as things stand. “United view Anderson as their top choice ahead of Sandro Tonali and Adam Wharton. “The Newcastle and Crystal Palace midfielders are also under consideration, but Tonali’s fee and wage are currently viewed as less value for money. United’s stance revealed “There is overlap between the two Manchester clubs in targets with City also appreciating Tonali. Newcastle could be open to a sale for the Italian but for a fee of £100 million or more.” The price tag was expected given Tonali’s potential and ability, but with his contract running until 2028, Newcastle remain in an advantageous position regarding to negotiating power. Unless the midfield maestro haggles for a move away, a major reduction is not expected. It will be interesting to see which midfielder the 20-time English league champions finally sign in the summer. Feature image Mike Hewitt 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 Ayantan Chowdhury After failing to become a professional footballer, Ayantan switched to the next best thing: writing about the greatest football club in the world. He has extensive sports journalism experience, having worked for over 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25