BREAKING: Michael Carrick Stunned As Man Utd View Midfield Signing Is Really Expensive And Deal Could Crumble

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According to a report by Manchesterevening News on Sunday May 24, 2026, Manchester United are expected to reshape their midfield this summer, but one of their leading transfer targets could now prove too expensive. Reports suggest the club are increasingly concerned about the financial demands involved in pursuing Sandro Tonali from Newcastle United.

Midfield changes at Old Trafford appear inevitable, with Casemiro reportedly heading to Inter Miami CF, where he could reunite with Lionel Messi. Meanwhile, Manuel Ugarte is attracting growing interest from clubs in Italy and Turkey ahead of the transfer window.

Elliot Anderson of Nottingham Forest had previously emerged as a major target for United. However, several obstacles have complicated the situation, including Forest’s enormous valuation and strong interest from Manchester City in securing the midfielder instead.

Reports claim Nottingham Forest are demanding well over £100 million for Anderson, while the player is also believed to have agreed personal terms in principle with Manchester City. Those developments have dealt a setback to United’s hopes of bringing the highly-rated midfielder to Old Trafford.

According to journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, newly appointed United manager Michael Carrick actually views Tonali as the club’s ideal midfield signing ahead of Anderson. Carrick reportedly believes the Italian international would be the perfect addition to strengthen United’s midfield for next season.

Newcastle are understood to be considering the sale of one or two important players this summer in order to finance a squad rebuild. Anthony Gordon is reportedly one player the club would be willing to let leave, with FC Bayern Munich said to be interested.

Manchester United had reportedly been optimistic about signing Tonali for around €100 million, although Newcastle’s actual asking price could be even higher. In addition to the transfer fee, Tonali’s salary expectations are also believed to be contributing significantly to concerns surrounding the overall cost of the deal.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano explained that Manchester United admire Tonali greatly but currently consider the operation “really expensive.” United have still been active in Italy discussing several midfield options, including Ederson of Atalanta BC as part of their summer rebuild plans.