Manchester City could be ready to make a dramatic move in the race for Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali, despite already agreeing a huge deal to sign Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest.
The 26-year-old Italy international has been a target for Tottenham, but City's arrival could change the whole picture. City have already agreed a £116m deal for Anderson, which would make him the most expensive British player ever.
However, that does not appear to have ended their interest in Tonali, who is also wanted by Tottenham and has been monitored by Arsenal. Tonali's interest shows Maresca's big ambition, and a signing like him would be a major early statement under the new manager.
Enzo Maresca has just taken charge at the Etihad after replacing Pep Guardiola, and the club are clearly preparing for a new midfield era. A signing like Tonali would be a major statement of intent, offering something slightly different to Anderson.
Tonali is more experienced at Champions League level, tactically mature and comfortable controlling games from deep midfield. For Tottenham, this is a worrying development, especially as they were already facing a difficult negotiation with Newcastle before City's possible move.
Spurs may have Roberto De Zerbi as a key attraction, but City can offer a stronger recent winning culture, Champions League football and the chance to play under Maresca in a possession-heavy system. The question is whether City really need both Anderson and Tonali.
Financially, it would be a huge commitment, but tactically, it could work if Maresca wants to completely refresh the midfield. For Newcastle, selling Tonali would be painful unless the fee is enormous, while for Spurs, losing him to City would be a major blow.
