Newcastle suffer transfer blow as ‘athletic’ Howe target could be offered to West Ham

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Scott McTominay is on Newcastle United’s transfer radar this summer, but it looks like Manchester United might have other plans.

While Declan Rice is going to be too expensive for the Magpies, Man United are considering an approach for the West Ham skipper.

And they feel like they have a secret weapon when it comes to negotiations. Arsenal have seen a £90million bid rejected for the 24-year-old, and the Red Devils believe they have a way to make their offer eclipse that figure – but it would mean bad news for Eddie Howe’s interest in McTominay.

Man United look to use McTominay in Rice bid

According to the Telegraph, Man United are considering a player plus cash offer for Rice. The report states that they could offer either McTominay or Harry Maguire as part of the deal.

The prospect of bringing in McTominay at the same time as losing Rice has to be appealing for West Ham, as it would at least mean they already have an automatic replacement for the England international – even if he is not on the same level.

The Telegraph add that the Hammers are interested in signing McTominay, which means this type of deal could have legs – as long as they still get enough money as part of the transfer. That will depend on how much Man United think the ‘athletic‘ 26-year-old is worth.

Bad news for Newcastle’s transfer plans

News of Man United possibly offering McTominay to West Ham is not good for Newcastle, who are still looking to improve their midfield ahead of next season.

The Scotland international is a long-term target at St James’ Park, with Howe a big fan of Man United’s number 39.

But the Toon boss might not get the chance to work with him, as it sounds like the Red Devils are going to use him to help them sign another player who Newcastle have been looking at.

Rice has been a target for Newcastle, but will cost too much money. Toon officials are instead looking at Sandro Tonali from AC Milan. A deal for him would mean that missing out on Rice was no issue, and it could also mean there is no need for McTominay on Tyneside.