Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio is reporting that Brescia’s midfielder Sandro Tonali has caught the attention of many European clubs. Premier League holders Manchester City are said to be one of them, and other clubs like Juventus, Inter, Paris Saint-Germain are also interested.
Tonali is unlikely to leave in this window, but a move in the summer could be possible. The report states that there could be a bidding war for the midfielder in the summer. Tonali has also managed to represent Italy at the tender age of 19, and he has three caps for them. The youngster is being seen as a significant talent, and he has been compared with World Cup winner Andrea Pirlo. Pirlo also started with Brescia and then he went on to play for some top Serie A clubs like AC Milan and Juventus.
Reports from the Mirror earlier emerged that Brescia owner Massimo Cellino would want €50m for Tonali. The Italian is a defensive midfielder, but he can play in a box to box role as well. The midfielder is known for his ability to dictate play from the deeper areas in midfield.
What can Tonali offer?
Tonali is often brave and confident on the ball. He always looks to show up for the ball for his teammates, and he can keep possession even under immense pressure from the opposition. His spatial awareness and touches stand out, and he kind of seems a step ahead of the opposition when they try to press him.
Tonali showcases a decent work rate off the ball. The midfielder also has that killer pass in his locker which can unlock defences. He might have to work on the physical and defensive side to his game a bit to thrive in the Premier League, but the talent is there in the Italian ace.
Should City go after Tonali?
The 19-year-old can be a decent squad option, to begin with, if City decides to sign him in the summer. Fernandinho isn’t going to be around for long, and Guardiola might need more cover in midfield. Tonali can be a decent backup option for Rodri, and once he settles in the Premier League, he could be one to watch out for.
Tonali is someone who has a high ceiling of potential, and the midfielder can turn into a world-beater if he continues to work hard. The €50m price tag might seem a bit steep for him right now, but he could be worth going after given his talent.
