Despite the Premier League kicking off this weekend, the transfer window remains in full flow.
Newcastle United are still expected to be busy during what remains of the window, with plenty of players linked with a move.
Scott McTominay is an interesting name on that front. The Manchester United midfielder, hailed as “brilliant” by former manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, has been frequently touted as a £40m target at St James’ Park.
Still, it appears West Ham are ready to swoop. According to BBC Sport, the Hammers have launched a dual bid to sign both the Scotland international and another reported Toon target in Harry Maguire.
Danny Murphy, however, believes McTominay is a step above a move to east London.
Danny Murphy says Scott McTominay is too good for West Ham
When news of the bid broke on Monday evening, the pundit was quizzed on the matter on talkSPORT.
“I can’t see McTominay happening,” he said.
“I think he’s better than West Ham.
“It’s no disrespect to West Ham, it’s a compliment for him. They were nearly relegated, they were in the bottom three for God knows how long.
“He doesn’t want to go to a relegation battle when you’ve been playing for Man United and been the best player for your country.
“He’s a good player, McTominay. Super athletic, good footballer, scores goals.
“I think he’s a top six/top seven player, I like him.”
West Ham have endured a difficult summer since selling Declan Rice and are the only Premier League team not to sign a player.
A slightly harsh view from Murphy
Though David Moyes struggled in the Premier League last season, they did manage to win the Europa Conference League.
Prior to last year, the Hammers had been one of the most upwardly mobile teams in the division, so to judge them on one campaign during which they were juggling European duty seems somewhat harsh.
Let that be a warning for Newcastle.
Even a team who had been pushing the top six in the league can struggle with an increased schedule complicating matters.
Hopefully, Eddie Howe can do a better job than Moyes managed last season.
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