Manchester United is preparing for a major midfield overhaul in the summer of 2026, and Sandro Tonali of Newcastle United is one of the names on their radar. However, Real Madrid's interest could complicate this deal.

Tonali made a strong impression in Newcastle's victory over Manchester United in the previous round, which also marked the team's first loss under interim manager Michael Carrick. This performance further fueled speculation about the Italian midfielder's potential move to Manchester United.

According to British media reports, Manchester United's primary target in their midfield rebuild is Elliot Anderson. However, the midfielder is also on Manchester City's radar. Amid growing competition, Tonali is emerging as a standout alternative in INEOS' plans.

The Mirror reports that Real Madrid scouts were present at St. James' Park last weekend to watch Tonali in Newcastle's match against Manchester City. Although Newcastle lost 1-3 and was eliminated from the FA Cup, the 25-year-old midfielder played the full 90 minutes and provided an assist for Harvey Barnes' opening goal.

In addition to Manchester United and Real Madrid, Arsenal is also said to have been tracking Tonali since the January transfer window.

Experts estimate Tonali's transfer fee could be around £100 million. With interest from many top European clubs, signing the Italian midfielder this summer will not be easy.

Manchester United is prioritizing the search for a Casemiro replacement, while also looking to strengthen their squad amid the growing likelihood of their return to the UEFA Champions League. However, competition from Real Madrid and other major rivals could significantly hinder the Red Devils' transfer plans.

Tonali has accumulated a total of 102 appearances for Newcastle since he arrived at the English club in the summer of 2023, recording 10 goals and six assists in all competitions through this month. After serving a 10-month suspension that kept him off the pitch for much of his first campaign, the Italian midfielder regained prominence in his second season, in which he played 45 matches and scored six goals.

In the current 2025/26 season, Tonali has participated in 45 games, adding three goals and four assists, including consistent involvement in the Champions League, where he has played nine matches this year. His performance in the Premier League includes 73 total games with the Magpies, establishing himself as the midfield linchpin in head coach Eddie Howe's system.

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