Manchester United have significantly improved since the arrival of Michael Carrick and have qualified for the Champions League next season.
The Red Devils hit rock bottom last season when they finished 15th in the Premier League and suffered defeat to Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League final.
Carrick’s appointment in January was met with mixed reviews, but the former Man United midfielder has proved his doubters wrong during his six-month tenure and has reportedly signed a two-year deal to become the permanent manager at Old Trafford.
Finding stability and consistency from a manager has proved difficult for United over the last decade, but there will now be hope that, after a positive six months, they can continue to build on their progress and compete for silverware once again.
The summer transfer window is rapidly approaching and, with the season wrapped up this weekend, recruitment will become the priority for the Red Devils.
It has been widely reported that the club is focusing on a midfield rebuild to future-proof the centre of the pitch, with Casemiro set to depart when his contract expires this summer.
According to Sky Sports Italy, Man United are plotting a move for Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali.
The publication claims that United are confident they can get a deal done to secure the Italian’s signature after the Magpies failed to qualify for European football this season.
It has also been reported that Newcastle would demand £100m to part ways with their talented midfielder this summer.
Should Man United sign Sandro Tonali?
There is no doubt that a midfield reshuffle is desperately needed at Old Trafford, and Tonali could be the catalyst in forming a dynamic, high-energy presence in the centre of the pitch.
Casemiro’s exit will leave a huge hole in the team, as his experience and winning mentality are unrivalled within the squad, while captain Bruno Fernandes is gradually approaching the latter stages of his career at 31 years old.
Finding players who boast both elite-level experience and age on their side is difficult, but Tonali fits the perfect profile for United to invest in.
The 26-year-old – once hailed “brilliant” by ex-Man United star Paul Scholes – is a versatile midfielder with the ability to provide a dominant defensive presence while also posing a direct attacking threat.
Over 53 appearances this season, Tonali has scored three goals and registered seven assists, demonstrating both his creative quality in the final third and the confidence to create opportunities for himself.
If United can convince Newcastle to part ways with their star midfielder this summer, Carrick will have a ready-made talent with both Champions League and Premier League experience available from the first day of next season.
With that in mind, pursuing Tonali would be a statement of intent from Manchester United.
His arrival would not only strengthen a vulnerable midfield, but also signal that Carrick’s rebuild is focused on returning the club to sustained success at the highest level.
About the Author
