Tottenham’s aggressive summer spending continues with a club-record agreement for Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali.
While Sandro Tonali was linked to Manchester United this summer, the Old Trafford faithful have no reason to lose sleep over missing out on the Italy international. Tottenham are set to pay Newcastle £92.5m plus £7.5m in achievable add-ons for Tonali, as per Sky Sports.
Although Tonali was among United’s midfield targets this summer, it always felt as though there were other options ahead of the Italian on the wish list.
Here are three reasons I think United fans should be relieved that Ineos haven’t decided to pay £100m for Tonali.
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Tottenham out of the running for other central midfielders
Anyone choosing to sign for Tottenham over United needs their heads examined. However, in the modern game, it’s not quite as easy as that.
United were never going to match Tottenham’s offer for Tonali, so it would be wrong for anyone to suggest he turned the Reds down to sign for a club that finished 17th in the Premier League in the previous two campaigns, fighting against relegation.
Tottenham’s aggressive spending needs to stop at some point, and, after closing in on deals for Tonali and Mateus Fernandes, that means they are unlikely to spend mega money on more midfielders.
This should benefit United in negotiations for alternative targets because Tottenham have been reckless so far this summer.
Sandro Tonali isn’t worth half £100m
There is no denying that Tonali is a very good player and would help improve United’s midfield, but that doesn’t justify his price tag.
United would be heavily criticised – and rightly so – if they spent anywhere near £100m for Tonali.
It would be a stretch to say Tonali is worth more than half what Tottenham are willing to pay for his signature.
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Keeps door open for better tactical fits
By passing on Tonali, United can prioritise a more natural, physically dominant defensive anchor to play alongside Kobbie Mainoo and to shield the defence.
By not spending £100m on Tonali, United can now put the money they have towards another player. Preferably, a suitable target with the nerve to fill Casemiro’s void.
That would be a big ask for Tonali on top of the scrutiny that comes with playing for the biggest club in England.
Luckily, there are plenty of options in the market.
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