Newcastle United are prepared to make a formal approach to sign Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay during the summer transfer window, according to The Telegraph.
The Magpies were interested in signing the Scotland international in the January transfer window but United were not keen on negotiating with a direct rival for a Champions League place.
It is now reported that the Tyneside outfit will make a fresh move this summer and believe the Red Devils will soften their chance as Erik ten Hag needs to sell players to raise extra transfer funds.
Meanwhile, Eddie Howe is an admirer of the midfielder and feels the 26-year-old would add something different to the Magpies squad. McTominay is open to the idea of moving to the North East.
Man Utd likely to part ways with McTominay
McTominay started the season as an indispensable figure from the number six role. He managed to keep Casemiro out of the starting line-up until the 6-3 rout at the hands of Manchester City.
Casemiro has since been an undisputed starter in the defensive midfield role when available. In his absence this year, Fred and Marcel Sabitzer have played in the position ahead of McTominay.
Hence, it is unsurprising that the Scot is unsettled at the moment. The Magpies could guarantee him a starting spot alongside Bruno Guimaraes, but United won’t let him go on the cheap.
It has been reported that the Red Devils are eyeing £40 million-plus for McTominay and they could stay firm on the valuation, particularly if the Magpies also qualify for the Champions League.
In our view, United should utilise the funds from McTominay’s sale for the purchase of Joao Palhinha from Fulham. The Portuguese has been by far the best holding midfielder in the league this term.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
