Premier League
Manchester City near signing midfielder Sandro Tonari
Manchester City are poised to sign Italian midfielder Sandro Tonari, with the Premier League club undeterred by Newcastle United’s £100 million asking price. Tonari has indicated a summer move to the Etihad if a return to Italy does not materialise, and City have made his preferred destination clear.
One clear summer target for Manchester City is to bolster a midfield that lost Bernardo Silva. The club’s engine room is described as needing more quality after certain signings failed to meet expectations.
Newcastle United’s Sandro Tonari, described as combative and silky, is a proven Premier League performer. His profile matches the type of elite midfielder City seek.
Tonari reportedly prefers a summer move to Manchester City if he cannot return to Italy, while his ideal destination remains former club AC Milan. Newcastle’s £100 million asking price makes a Serie A return unlikely.
Graeme Bailey reported for TeamTalk that Tonari’s camp has briefed interested clubs about his situation. Manchester City, Arsenal, Manchester United, Chelsea and Tottenham were made aware of his wish, though all but Tottenham have cooled their interest.
City are not put off by the £100 million price tag and have presented Tonari with a long‑term plan and family support structure. The midfielder is said to be impressed by the project the FA Cup and Carabao Cup winners have outlined.
With doubts lingering over Rodri’s long‑term future, Tonari could initially learn from the Spanish captain before taking his place. If Elliot Anderson signs, the trio of Rodri, Anderson and Tonari could form a lethal midfield unit.
Should Tonari depart Newcastle this summer and remain in the Premier League, Manchester City appear to be his preferred destination.