Transfer Rumours: Sandro Tonali 'deal on' as midfielder greenlights Man Utd move

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Tom Weber | Writer

Multilingual sports writer who specialises in European football and American soccer.

FootballTransfers runs through the biggest rumours and gossip from 21 June, including the latest updates on Sandro Tonali, Felix Nmecha and Igor Thiago.

Tonali to Spurs on despite Man City interest

Tottenham remain in the driver's seat for Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The Italy international is Roberto de Zerbi's marquee summer target and is believed to be keen on the move. However, Man City are also chasing Tonali despite their talks over a potentially record-breaking deal for Nottingham Forest star Elliot Anderson.

Nevertheless, the deal is still "on" as far as Spurs are concerned. "Tottenham are working on a deal for Sandro Tonali," Romano said. "Tottenham are aware of the player being open to joining."

"As of today, I keep telling you: Tonali and Tottenham - wanted by De Zerbi - are in talks. So, deal on, Tottenham-Tonali. That’s the understanding, that’s the story."

David Ornstein confirms that Tottenham have now opened talks with Newcastle over a deal for Tonali.

Nmecha wants Man Utd

Borussia Dortmund midfielder Felix Nmecha is open to joining Man Utd this summer, TEAMtalk claims.

The Red Devils and other suitors are in contact with the Germany international despite the fact that he recently signed a new contract. Dortmund do not want to lose him, with reports in Germany stating that only a fee north of €100 million could change that stance.

However, it is now being asserted that a much more reasonable €60m could do the trick. Nmecha is keen to return to England after coming through Man City's academy.

Arsenal, Man Utd want Thiago

Brentford striker Igor Thiago is a priority target for Arsenal and Man Utd this summer, as per RTI Esporte.

The Brazil international scored 25 goals across all competitions in 2025/26 and is currently with the national team at the World Cup. Mikel Arteta is a long-standing admirer of the physical striker.

Man Utd are also believed to be in the race for his signature, but Arsenal have "stepped up" their "moves" for the 24-year-old. Prising him away from Brentford won't be easy, however.

Romero not a Man Utd target

Tottenham captain Cristian Romero is not a target for Man Utd, Fabrizio Romano insists.

The Red Devils previously enquired about the Argentine centre-back, but reports that Man Utd are once again exploring a deal are believed to be wide of the mark, despite Romero's expected departure from Spurs.

"I can guarantee that Man Utd didn't make any approach to Tottenham for Cristian Romero," Romano explained. "There are other clubs working on a deal for Romero and there is a serious possibility he leaves.

"Man Utd asked about his situation months ago, but not in June and not even in May. My understanding is that if Romero leaves Tottenham, his priority would be to try a new chapter in another country."

Arsenal to bid for Barcola

Arsenal are readying an €80m bid for PSG winger Bradley Barcola, CaughtOffside writes.

PSG are willing to let the France international leave, but only if their sizeable valuation is met. It is claimed that the French champions are demanding a fee in the region of €100m.

Arsenal, for their part, want to test the waters with an offer of €80m. This gap in valuation could lead to complications, especially as Barcola has no shortage of other suitors who may be more inclined to pay big money for him.

More transfer rumours

The agent of AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan is sounding out the market for potential Premier League suitors. (Gazzetta dello Sport)

Man Utd are "pushing" to get a deal done for West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes. (Fabrizio Romano)

Bayer Leverkusen are requesting a €30m fee from Atletico Madrid for Alejandro Grimaldo but could lower their demands slightly. (Sky Germany)

Lyon, Eintracht Frankfurt, AS Monaco and Nottingham Forest are interested in Juventus striker Lois Openda. (Di Marzio)

Atletico Madrid are monitoring Newcastle striker Nick Woltemade. (AS)

Pierre Sage wants to sign Lyon utility man Ainsley Maitland-Niles for Crystal Palace. (Foot Mercato)

West Ham are planning to replace Mateus Fernandes with Hibs midfielder Josh Mulligan. (TEAMtalk)