Why Sandro Tonali would secure Man United’s midfield for the next decade

According to a report from the Metro, Manchester United are tracking Brescia midfielder Sandro Tonali ahead of a potential January swoop.

Sandro Tonali, 19, is very highly rated in Italy and has drawn comparisons with the legendary Andrea Pirlo due to his style of play, long sweeping hair and for starting his career at Brescia. The midfielder played a pivotal role in helping Brescia achieve promotion to Serie A last season, making 34 appearances in total.

Manchester United are just one of several European clubs interested in the teenage sensation, who was in action for Italy Under-21 on Thursday as they drew 0-0 with Ireland. With Tonali impressing in Italy, the Red Devils must make a move for him in January.

United changed their transfer policy under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, focusing on bringing in young, hungry and talented players to Old Trafford, with the likes of Daniel James and Aaron Wan-Bissaka being signed this past summer.

With youngsters such as Mason Greenwood, Angel Gomes, Axel Tuanzebe and Tahith Chong being given a chance to shine this season, Tonali would fit the mould for the long-term plan being adopted by Solskjaer.

Having come through the club’s academy, Tonali made his professional debut aged just 17. Such were his performances for the side that he was named Serie B’s Footballer of the Year in 2018.

His arrival could help facilitate United become far more comfortable and robust on the ball, and simultaneously land them one of European football’s hottest prospects.

A gifted deep-lying playmaker, the Italian has the ability to orchestrate the game with his range of passing from the middle of the park. He has excellent technical qualities, vision and distribution skills which help him keep things ticking over for his team.

At just 19, Tonali has the strength to hold off opponents and the skill to dance around them with the ball stuck to his feet like gum.

More Manchester United News

There have also been questions asked of United’s strength in depth in central midfield recently, with Paul Pogba injured, Nemanja Matic and Fred struggling and neither Ander Herrera nor Marouane Fellaini replaced in the summer.

A real workhorse with solid composure on the ball and tackling traits, the Brescia starlet would be an excellent midfield addition for United, who have largely struggled to control games this season.

Verdict

Tonali has gone from strength to strength since making his debut for Brescia and there are a number of reasons why he has been called Pirlo’s heir. At 19, his potential is frightening and the Red Devils just cannot let a gem of a talent slip away from their hands.