Manchester United’s search for a new midfielder is accelerating after Casemiro officially said goodbye to Old Trafford.
The Brazilian received a standing ovation during United’s dramatic 3-2 victory over Nottingham Forest as supporters paid tribute to the midfielder before his summer departure.
That same match also gave Manchester United another close look at one of their biggest transfer targets.
Elliot Anderson impressed heavily for Nottingham Forest despite the defeat and reportedly strengthened United’s admiration even further.
The midfielder produced two assists, dominated possession and controlled large periods of the game at Old Trafford. However, Manchester United know signing Anderson will not be straightforward.
Manchester City are also pushing strongly for the Forest midfielder and reports suggest the Citizens are currently leading the race for his signature.
Because of that growing competition, United have already started examining alternative midfield options ahead of the summer transfer window. Several names already feature on the club’s shortlist.
Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba and Atalanta star Ederson both remain under consideration, while Real Madrid pair Federico Valverde and Aurelien Tchouameni have also attracted interest.
Now, according to Tutto Juve, Manchester United have also opened talks over Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali.
The report claims both Manchester United and Arsenal have already contacted relevant parties to understand the financial conditions of a possible transfer.
Newcastle reportedly value the Italy international at around £80 million. That figure is lower than previous reports earlier this season which suggested Newcastle could demand close to £100 million.
Tonali previously emerged as a target for Manchester United several months ago before links temporarily cooled down.
However, reports from Italy now suggest the Premier League club have reignited their interest. And, they are preparing for a major midfield rebuild.
Arsenal also remain interested in the Newcastle midfielder. Mikel Arteta wants further improvements after winning the Premier League title.
Now, with Manchester City threatening to beat United to Anderson, the race for Tonali could quickly become one of the biggest midfield transfer battles of the summer window.
🚨 Arsenal and Manchester United have been informed that Sandro Tonali will cost £80M if he is to leave Newcastle United this summer.
With Newcastle missing out on European football this season, the club may need to balance the books and there are a few players at the club… pic.twitter.com/vM135hTS8G
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) May 18, 2026
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