Tonali's absence from the World Cup makes him more suitable for Manchester United's acquisition! Running 11 kilometers per game, he is seen as a defensive midfielder version of Bruno Fernandes.

Although Italy lost to Bosnia in a penalty shootout, missing the World Cup finals for three consecutive editions, this is beneficial for midfielder Sandro Tonali's summer transfer. He can focus on resolving his future club situation and fully participate in summer training, ensuring better form for the new season.

According to Italian transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Manchester United is seriously considering signing Tonali this summer and has already begun negotiations with the Italian international's agent, Beppe Riso. Tonali is one of Newcastle United's key players and widely regarded as a top midfielder in the Premier League.

Tonali was linked with Arsenal in the previous transfer window but ultimately did not move. Newcastle United refused to approve a deal in the January winter transfer window, but rumors suggest that if they fail to qualify for European competitions after the season ends, the "Magpies" will agree to let Tonali leave.

Newcastle CEO David Hopkin hinted that the club may inevitably undergo personnel adjustments this summer, which is a significant advantage for Manchester United in signing Tonali. Due to missing the Champions League, Newcastle will transition from a club focused on buying players to one focused on selling.

Hopkin said: "We will carefully consider what players want or do not want to do this summer. If a situation similar to Isak arises again, any contracted player will leave under our terms, and the club will maximize the opportunities this may bring. Looking ahead, our strategy is to buy well and sell well."

Once confirmed to miss the Champions League, Newcastle is believed to need to sell at least one key player to fill financial gaps. Hopkin responded: "We are not ready to answer such questions. First, we must determine the situation we face and the opportunities the transfer market brings. I would say we intend to remain disciplined, proactive, sensible, and act as proactively as possible. What will the outcome be? I cannot tell you yet."

Romano stated: "It is noteworthy that Manchester United has contacted Tonali's team to understand his situation. No agreement has been reached yet, and negotiations have not begun, but United's interest is genuine and ongoing. Tonali is keen on returning to a bigger European stage, provided all parties agree, so this matter is worth watching. Arsenal was also interested, but there is no progress currently. For Italian clubs including Juventus, this deal is almost financially impossible."

The Athletic reported that last summer, Manchester United considered Tonali a priority target but did not act, due to costs and the player's suspension. However, the situation has changed now, and the only obstacle to signing Tonali is financial expenditure. Romano said United will not go crazy or pay an excessive price for Tonali.

It is said that one key reason Manchester United favors Tonali is his active running attitude. Data shows Tonali's average running distance ranks among the top 1% of Premier League players; for him, running over 11 kilometers per game is commonplace.

Manchester United insiders describe Tonali as "a Bruno who defends"; both also prefer the number 8 shirt. He can cover vast areas between both penalty boxes, balanced in attack and defense, with excellent tactical awareness and discipline, and a never-give-up attitude. In a match against United, he still had energy in the 94th minute to receive the ball near Newcastle's box and dribble towards United's corner flag, with Kobbie Mainoo and Mason Mount unable to catch him. In Italy's match against Bosnia, he was the only Azzurri player who could score a penalty after 120 minutes of battle.

Another advantage of Tonali is his durability; over the past six years, he has missed only 13 games due to injury. This season, he has played 47 times for Newcastle, with only defender Malick Thiaw having more minutes. Thus, although Newcastle fans were disappointed that Tonali missed the Tyne-Wear derby loss to Sunderland (1-2) and then became the best player in a national team match, they never doubted his professionalism.

Tonali's transfer fee may approach £100 million, similar to Chelsea's Enzo Fernández and Moisés Caicedo, and Arsenal's Declan Rice. Manchester United legend Paul Scholes, known for criticism, highly appreciates Tonali and believes he is stronger than Rice.

Regarding valuation, if Newcastle is willing to let him go, we will discuss it in March or April," said Tonali's agent Riso. Sources told The Athletic that the rumored gentleman's agreement allowing Tonali to leave if Newcastle misses European competitions does not exist, but there is mutual respect and appreciation between the club and the player.

Manchester United also desires Nottingham Forest's English international Elliot Anderson, who is younger at 23 and more like a number 6 player. Tonali turns 26 in May and has higher wages than Anderson.

However, Anderson's price may be higher, especially if he performs well in the summer's USA-Mexico-Canada World Cup. United wants to complete the deal before the World Cup, but Forest is not foolish and naturally would not agree, believing Anderson can shine for England this summer, which would only increase his value further.

Moreover, importantly, Anderson is a Manchester City fan; if free to choose between the two Manchester clubs, picking City would not be surprising.

Tonali is also not cheap; he will not force a transfer from Newcastle, as he will always appreciate the club and fans' strong support during his suspension. "They never judged me or made me feel burdened," Tonali said.