Manchester United are eyeing a midfield overhaul this summer as they approach a transfer window that could be crucial in determining their future. With the team closing in on Champions League qualification, the feeling around the club seems optimistic, and many believe this summer could be huge.

Midfield is undoubtedly the area United are keen to strengthen the most. Many names have been mentioned over the last few months, including Elliot Anderson, who is reportedly United's priority target.

As well as Anderson, players such as Sandro Tonali, Adam Wharton and Carlos Baleba, despite his clear poor form, are still on United's list.

The Telegraph recently reported that United believe Wharton is "too similar to Kobbie Mainoo to be a natural partner in the deeper midfield positions."

Fabrizio Romano also confirmed that Anderson is edging closer to a move to Manchester City but stated that "in case City are not able to close the deal, United remain very interested in the player."

For United, many reports have suggested a move for Sandro Tonali would be too expensive. It is believed Newcastle United would demand a large fee and Tonali's wage package would be significant. With INEOS's new wage structure, it seems they are reluctant to compete for the top players and are comfortable watching their rivals strengthen further.

The Italian international is expected to leave Newcastle this summer after the Magpies' failure to achieve qualification for any European competition. 

Newcastle signed Tonali in 2023 from AC Milan but were without him almost instantly for a ten-month period after it was found that he had breached Italian gambling regulations. 

Since his return, the Italian has been outstanding for Newcastle and now looks set to leave for a top club this summer. Despite being linked with the likes of United, City, Arsenal and even Real Madrid, it seems he would prefer a move back to his native country.

Journalist Sebastien Vidal described Tonali's decision as a "total U-turn" in a recent post on X.

"Total U-turn for Sandro Tonali: courted by Manchester City and Manchester United, the Italian is now eyeing a return to Serie A. A choice that changes everything on the market and puts both Manchester clubs under pressure."

It is believed that United are not likely to pursue a deal due to the financial package a deal for Tonali would take to complete. 

Manchester United's midfield has been an issue for a long time now. Currently, United deploy a 34-year-old Casemiro, who is set to leave this summer, and have one senior option on the bench - Manuel Ugarte.

With Casemiro leaving and Ugarte's future certainly not at United, the team could genuinely need three new faces in this area to accompany Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo.

Squad depth is essential for United now with the prospect of Champions League football next season. Ahead of next season, United have two senior midfield options. With the club abandoning Ruben Amorim's 3-4-3 system, four midfielders will not be enough.

If the club decide to stick with Michael Carrick as manager this summer, they must give him the best chance at succeeding, especially given his inexperience. In recent years, the Glazers and INEOS have consistently underprovided their managers, especially in the midifield department. 

This summer will define United's future and it will show us what trajectory the club are on. Tonali ticks every box and could be considered the perfect signing for United. He is experienced whilst still young, Premier League proven and has all the attributes a modern midfield player needs. These are the type of signings a serious Manchester United makes.