Manchester United urged to sign Sandro Tonali over Elliot Anderson as £100m transfer debate intensifies

Manchester United legend Gary Pallister believes Sandro Tonali would be a better signing than Elliot Anderson as the Red Devils search for midfield reinforcements this summer.

While Nottingham Forest star Anderson has attracted serious interest from both Manchester clubs following a breakthrough campaign, Pallister feels Newcastle United midfielder Tonali possesses the qualities that better suit Old Trafford.

United looking to reshape midfield

Midfield remains a priority area for Manchester United after veteran Brazilian Casemiro departed Old Trafford upon the expiration of his contract.

The club is now assessing several high-profile targets, with both Anderson and Tonali emerging as potential options.

However, Forest are reportedly demanding a staggering £130 million fee for Anderson — a figure that would make him the most expensive British player in football history.

That valuation has prompted questions over whether United should instead focus on Newcastle’s Italian international.

Pallister backs Tonali over Anderson

Speaking to GOAL on behalf of Spreadex Sports, Pallister admitted he is a huge admirer of both players but believes Tonali is the more natural fit for Manchester United.

“I’m a fan of Tonali. I think he’s more of a Manchester United player.

“When he’s on the ball, I think he maybe delivers a little bit more than Elliot Anderson.”

The former United defender acknowledged Anderson’s relentless energy and work rate but believes Tonali offers a more complete package.

“I think Elliot Anderson’s all-action display would also fit into Manchester United because of the energy he brings.

“But in terms of looking at a Manchester United player that I’ve played with or seen over the years, then I think Tonali’s more of a fit.”

£100m problem remains

Even if United decide to switch their attention to Tonali, Pallister admits the financial challenge may not disappear.

Newcastle have no desire to sell one of their key players and would likely demand a fee close to nine figures.

“If they’re not prepared to go and pay whatever for Elliot Anderson, I’m not sure what Tonali is but I’m sure they’ll be asking £100 million for him as well.

“That’s no disrespect to Elliot Anderson because I think he’s a terrific player, as he’s proven for England. But I just think for me, Tonali would edge it for Manchester United.”

Anderson continues to attract admirers

Despite concerns over his price tag, Anderson’s stock continues to rise following a remarkable campaign for Forest and his emergence on the international stage with England.

Former Forest striker Marlon Harewood recently argued that the midfielder’s valuation reflects the modern transfer market.

“Anderson is definitely one of those players.

“With the money that’s going on in the game over the last couple of years, he is definitely worth the price tag and I think he will go on and do really well at whatever club he is at.”

His performances have reportedly attracted strong interest from Manchester City, who are monitoring his situation closely.

Tonali tipped for another step up

Since joining Newcastle from AC Milan in 2023, Tonali has established himself as one of the Premier League’s most complete midfielders.

The Italian combines technical quality with relentless work rate and leadership qualities, making him one of the most sought-after midfielders in Europe.

Former Italy and Manchester United forward Giuseppe Rossi recently suggested Tonali deserves to play at the highest possible level.

“He deserves it. He’s been a great player for Newcastle.

“He’s a leader out there. He provides a lot of quality, but also quantity. These are rare players in our game today.”

Rossi also acknowledged that any club pursuing Tonali will have to pay a premium.

“The price tags today in football are crazy. So you’re definitely going to be paying top dollar for a player like him.”

Transfer battle set to intensify

With United determined to strengthen their midfield ahead of the new campaign, both Anderson and Tonali remain firmly on the club’s radar.

The question now is whether the Red Devils are willing to meet the enormous valuations attached to either player — or if they will be forced to explore alternative options before the summer window closes.