1 goal, 1 assist, 6 recoveries: £55m star dazzles on Int'l duty, Bruno Fernandes wants him at Man Utd

Manchester United are poised to reinforce their midfield department at the end of the season, and Newcastle United star Sandro Tonali has been earmarked as a prime target.

The 25-year-old was in action for Italy against Northern Ireland in the World Cup play-off semi-final in Bergamo yesterday. He showed his class with a standout performance for the Azzurri.

The Magpies midfielder opened the scoring for the hosts with a sublime low shot from the edge of the box, and went on to provide the assist for Moise Kean’s 80th-minute goal.

Tonali had a passing accuracy of just 59 percent in the game. He was guilty of losing possession on 23 occasions, winning just one of his seven ground and aerial duels contested. He made six recoveries.

Despite this, the Newcastle man made it count where it mattered the most. His goal and assist ensured that Italy kept their World Cup dream alive. They will face Bosnia & Herzegovina on the road for a World Cup berth on Tuesday.

Tonali, who was signed by Newcastle from AC Milan for £55 million, has emerged as a top target for the Red Devils. United captain Bruno Fernandes has already given the green light to an approach.

Still, there are questions around the Italian’s ability to control the play in midfield. He has the knack of losing possession (11 times per league game), and he is not someone who regularly wins duels.

We believe Tonali would be a superb acquisition for United as a central midfielder, but he does not appear to be the right fit if the Red Devils consider him as a number six to replace Casemiro.

With Manuel Ugarte’s future doubtful heading into the summer, United’s hierarchy should ideally pursue a deal for Tonali, while also considering an approach for another marquee holding midfielder.

Champions League qualification could be key for a big spending spree on two midfield additions.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com

Article written by Sri Aswin .