Michael Carrick couldn’t make it five wins in a row for Manchester United, as the Red Devils drew 1-1 against West Ham during the week. They remain in the top four and are fully embroiled in a fight for Champions League football.

In terms of next season, United must qualify for the Champions League, as it will help them attract better players in the transfer market. It is understood that Man United want to sign a midfielder in the summer to help replace Casemiro for the long-term.

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Both Man United and Arsenal have been linked to a fellow Premier League midfielder for a summer move, and the attraction of Champions League football could be enough to tempt him, despite serious competition.

Tonali wanted by Real Madrid

Man United and Arsenal have been linked to signing Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali, amid suggestions that Tonali’s agent is trying to force a move out of St James’ Park, especially if Newcastle fail to qualify for the Champions League.

However, both United and Arsenal face some stiff competition for the Italy international, as Real Madrid is reportedly keen. According to Italian outlet TuttoJuve, Madrid are ‘ready to submit’ a £65m bid for Tonali in the summer. Serie A giants Juventus are also keen on Tonali too, hence why the reports are coming from Italy rather than Spain.

Tonali is a key player for Newcastle, and manager Eddie Howe is a huge fan of the 25-year-old. He was quoted by Football Italia earlier in the year, dubbing Tonali as “first-class” because of his ball-winning ability in midfield. Howe said: “His ball-winning ability is second to none, his understanding of how we wanted him to play is first class. He’s become such an important player for us in a very quick time.”

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How much could Tonali cost?

A potential £65m bid from Real Madrid is a hefty amount, but seeing as Newcastle have rich owners, and no intention of selling Tonali, they will likely demand a lot more for the 25-year-old midfielder.

Reports earlier in the week suggested that Newcastle could demand at least £80m for him, with a potential price tag up to £100m, which puts Tonali in the same price bracket as the likes of Elliot Anderson at Nottingham Forest, Carlos Baleba at Brighton, and Adam Wharton at Crystal Palace.

It is understood that Tonali will consider his options in the summer, especially if the Magpies fail to qualify for Europe. With Newcastle currently sat in 10th, nine points off the top four, a move to someone like Arsenal or Man United may be preferable, assuming Carrick is able to deliver Champions League football at Old Trafford.

Tonali has made 26 Premier League appearances for the Magpies this season, ensuring his spot as one of their most important players.