Manchester United are reportedly making strong efforts to finalise a deal for Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali, even as they move closer to securing Ederson from Atalanta.

Following the official appointment of Michael Carrick as the club’s new permanent head coach last week, Manchester United are ready to tackle the summer transfer window with clear intent.

According to widespread reports, the Red Devils are targeting at least two new midfielders, along with a left-back and a left-winger, as part of their summer rebuild plans.

One of those midfield additions seems likely to be Ederson, with Fabrizio Romano revealing on Sunday that the Atalanta midfielder is currently “giving priority” to Manchester United after agreeing personal terms with the club.

However, Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio has now claimed that Carrick is keen for Manchester United to make Newcastle star Tonali his first signing at Old Trafford.

Di Marzio explained: “Tonali is currently a Newcastle player, but he could soon become the most expensive Italian footballer ever. He was transferred to Newcastle for nearly €70 million, which included both a fixed fee and bonuses.

“There was a gentleman’s agreement between Tonali and Newcastle that allowed for a move to a top club in the event that the Magpies failed to qualify for the Champions League. The valuation was set high, with a base price around €100 million. Manchester United have now decided to focus their attention on Tonali, regardless of their progress with Ederson. Tonali is the first player Carrick specifically wants at Manchester United. There is a strong chance that the transfer could happen, though the final amount is still uncertain — it could be €100 million or somewhere between €75-80 million plus bonuses, but it will undoubtedly be a significant deal.”

There appears to be a genuine possibility that Manchester United could sign both Tonali and Ederson this summer, with Atalanta boss Raffaele Palladino hinting at discussions with the Premier League club regarding the Brazilian midfielder.

Speaking about United’s interest in Ederson, Palladino said: “The decision was made in agreement with the player, as there are developments happening in the transfer market. When such a big club follows one of our players, it should be seen as a matter of pride.”

Meanwhile, Italian journalist Niccolo Ceccarini has stated that the deal for Ederson is “nearing completion” and that Manchester United are also “close to reaching an agreement” with Newcastle for Tonali.

Writing in his TuttoMercatoWeb column, Ceccarini noted: “After the sale of Lookman in January, Atalanta are now preparing to part ways with Éderson.

“The Brazilian is ready for a new challenge. The deal with Manchester United is almost done, with Atalanta set to receive around €50 million. And when it comes to midfielders, the Red Devils are also close to finalising an agreement with Newcastle for Sandro Tonali.”