As West Ham United step up their bid to sign Scott McTominay, Newcastle United’s interest in the midfielder might not be over.
The Manchester United man is a long-term target for the Magpies, with Eddie Howe a fan of the Scotland international. After failing to get him last summer and in January, there was talk of a renewed bid ahead of the 2023/24 campaign.
It looked like McTominay was one of Newcastle’s major targets this summer, with Toon officials keen to bring him to St James’ Park.
However, since the arrival of Sandro Tonali on Tyneside, there has been barely any speculation of him being joined by McTominay. His price tag is too high, and it felt like West Ham was his most likely destination.
They stepped up their interest in the 26-year-old this week, launching a £30million bid that has already been rejected by Man United.
The Hammers will need to offer more money, and now Sky Sports have hinted that Newcastle are still a contender to sign McTominay.
Newcastle ‘could’ still challenge West Ham for Scott McTominay
According to Sky Sports reporter Melissa Reddy, Newcastle could still make a move to sign McTominay this summer.
She wrote on Twitter: “Manchester United have rejected a £30m bid from West Ham for Scott McTominay. Valued closer to £45m. Club more than happy to keep him, but he’s also seen as the biggest sale they can make this summer. Newcastle could also still act on their interest depending on other deals.”
Manchester United have rejected a £30m bid from West Ham for Scott McTominay. Valued closer to £45m. Club more than happy to keep him, but he’s also seen as the biggest sale they can make this summer.
Newcastle could also still act on their interest depending on other deals
— Melissa Reddy (@MelissaReddy_) August 7, 2023
Hard to see Newcastle making a move
While he is a long-term target, it is difficult to envision Newcastle making a move to sign McTominay now.
With the Magpies set to take their summer spending beyond £100million with the Tino Livramento deal, there is limited money left to spend. And what is left will likely go towards a centre-back, which is our next priority.
That has to be where Newcastle turn to next. Therefore, a move for McTominay would be very unwise – especially at £45million.
Perhaps Newcastle’s name is just being used to get West Ham to up their offer, but there is surely no chance that the Magpies are going to pay Manchester United’s asking price for McTominay when their midfield is already pretty stacked.
