Newcastle could be forced to sell Tonali to Man Utd early so they can secure Ugarte
Ciaran McCarthy
Newcastle could be forced to sell Sandro Tonali to Manchester United early in the summer transfer window so that they can land Red Devils midfielder Manuel Ugarte ahead of European rivals, reports Football Insider.
Tonali is garnering interest from a lot of top Premier League and European clubs this season. Having been one of Newcastle's best players for his entire spell at the club, he's continued to be a consistent performer in a now underwhelming side.
There is therefore a sense that the Italian should be onto bigger things, and third-placed Premier League side United are one of the clubs hoping to land him.
They have been searching for a top midfielder to come into the engine room all season, and Tonali might be the perfect man for the job.
That Newcastle are interested in Red Devils man Manuel Ugarte could give United a lift over other interested clubs.
Football Insider reports United could use the Magpies' interest in Ugarte to further a move for Tonali, with a swap deal 'of sorts' on the cards.
Indeed, with other European clubs interested in Ugarte, the report suggests Newcastle might have to give up Tonali to United early in the summer window, so they can beat their rivals to their own target.
It's believed that's not a move that would go down particularly well with the fans. However, it looks likely Tonali is going to be out the door one way or another, so at least they'd be getting in an experienced midfielder in return.
Long-term Newcastle interest in Ugarte
Insider Pete O'Rourke has described the length of Newcastle's interest in signing Ugarte, which could soon have a happy conclusion for them.
He said: “I think they have had a long-term interest in Ugarte.
“They looked at him when he was at Sporting Lisbon, but the last couple of moves haven’t worked out for Ugarte. First of all at PSG, and now at Man United, he has been a bit underwhelming.
“He’s fallen out of favour this season under Michael Carrick. He’s started just seven games in the Premier League, so he’s struggled to have the desired impact that many expected.”
After a couple of underwhelming moves, Ugarte will want to find a home, and his desire to make the right move could be ideal for the speed of the potential deal involving Tonali, who would undoubtedly be an upgrade for United.
