Manchester United have emerged as the frontrunners to sign Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali, with the Red Devils leading the chase for his signature.

New manager Michael Carrick has identified Tonali as a top priority target and has the full backing of INEOS as he looks to reshape the squad this summer.

United are prepared to open talks with an offer in the region of £70m to £80m for the Italy international, who has attracted considerable interest from across the Premier League.

Both Arsenal and Manchester City had been monitoring Tonali, but it appears United have pulled clear of their rivals in the race to land the 26-year-old.

Arsenal’s attention appears to have shifted elsewhere, with sources indicating that West Ham’s Mateus Fernandes is more likely to be their primary transfer focus this window.

Manchester City, meanwhile, have already seen a bid rejected for Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson and will reportedly make another attempt to sign him.

The key obstacle for United in any Tonali deal remains Newcastle’s firm reluctance to part with yet another key asset from their squad this summer.

“Manchester United and INEOS are on the same page – after securing Ederson, it looks like they’re ready to move for Tonali next,” one source said.

“Newcastle don’t want to sell, and they’ll insist on at least £100m. However, United can’t and won’t pay that, so expect them to test the waters with around £70-80m to start with.”

Newcastle have already lost Alexander Isak to Liverpool and seen Anthony Gordon complete a move to Barcelona in recent months, representing significant departures from their core group.

Losing Tonali on top of those exits would represent another blow to Newcastle’s ambitions, and the club will be determined to hold firm on their valuation.

Having already cashed in on Isak and Gordon, Newcastle may not be under significant financial pressure to sanction any further high-profile sales this transfer window.

United’s opening bid of around £70m to £80m falls well short of Newcastle’s expected asking price of at least £100m, meaning lengthy negotiations appear likely before any deal is struck.

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