Tonali tops Manchester United’s midfield wish-list as Casemiro succession plan gathers pace

Manchester United have placed Newcastle and Italy midfielder Sandro Tonali at the head of their summer recruitment targets as they prepare for life after Casemiro, according to reports.

The 25-year-old, who has impressed since returning from suspension, is viewed by Old Trafford decision-makers as the ideal long-term successor to the 33-year-old Brazilian anchorman. With Casemiro entering the latter stages of his career, United are accelerating plans to refresh the engine room and see Tonali’s blend of technical assurance and Serie A experience as a perfect fit.

Elsewhere on Monday’s rumour mill, Liverpool are ready to cash in on Federico Chiesa just months after signing the Italy international. The Anfield club will listen to offers in the region of €25-30 million (£21.7-26 m) for the 28-year-old forward, with Juventus, Napoli and Roma all monitoring developments.

Tottenham, meanwhile, have decided against making Randal Kolo Muani’s loan from Paris St-Germain a permanent arrangement. The France striker, 27, will return to the French capital when his temporary spell in north London expires.

Liverpool could also bring Jarell Quansah back to Merseyside next year, with the 23-year-old centre-back currently on loan at Bayer Leverkusen.

Bournemouth are poised to trigger an obligation to buy Alex Jimenez from AC Milan for €19.5 million (£16.9 m) after the 20-year-old Spanish full-back reached the required appearance threshold during his loan. Jimenez is expected to sign a five-and-a-half-year contract with the Cherries.

Manchester City have registered interest in Everton’s Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, valuing the 27-year-old English midfielder at around £40 million.