Manchester United are considering using Manuel Ugarte as a 'bargaining chip' to sign Sandro Tonali.
The Old Trafford club is looking to rebuild its midfield by pursuing Sandro Tonali from Newcastle, and is also considering using Manuel Ugarte as a potential swap deal to reduce costs.
Manchester United restart negotiations for Sandro Tonali.
A midfield overhaul is becoming a top priority for Manchester United in this summer's transfer window. With Casemiro set to leave Old Trafford when his contract expires at the end of the season, the Red Devils are actively searching for a top-class partner to play alongside young talent Kobbie Mainoo. Among the shortlist, Sandro Tonali of Newcastle is emerging as a strategic target.
According to the latest update from transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Manchester United's management re-established contact with Tonali's representatives in February and March. This move aimed to understand the actual situation, the asking price, and the personal conditions of the Italian midfielder. This is seen as a concrete step after a long period of monitoring the star player.
The fierce competition in the English Premier League.
Despite initial approaches, Manchester United face fierce competition from major rivals. Arsenal have begun making exploratory calls, while Manchester City also show particular admiration for Tonali. Pep Guardiola's side are in need of quality reinforcements as Bernardo Silva is likely to leave.
From Manchester United's perspective, the club's financial stance remains clear. They view Tonali as a priority but will not pay exorbitant prices. Any agreement is still in its early stages due to several undefined macroeconomic factors, including the head coach position, with Michael Carrick awaiting official confirmation.
The escape route is named Manuel Ugarte.
Amidst the deadlock over transfer fees, an unexpected solution has emerged for Manchester United. Sources from El Pais (Uruguay) reveal that Newcastle had previously attempted to loan Manuel Ugarte in the January transfer window, but were rejected by MU. However, the situation has now changed as Ugarte is experiencing a disappointing season with only 7 starts in the Premier League.
Ugarte's loss of form has put him on the club's transfer list. Newcastle's interest in the Uruguayan midfielder presents an opportunity for Manchester United to include him in a swap deal for Tonali. This option would not only help the Red Devils offload a surplus player but also significantly reduce the amount of cash they would have to spend.
Besides the exchange deal with Newcastle, Manchester United still have other options to recoup their investment. Big clubs like Atletico Madrid, Juventus, and Napoli are closely monitoring Ugarte's situation and are ready to make offers if the deal with Newcastle doesn't materialize.