Newcastle United have reportedly asked about signing Scott McTominay this summer.
That’s according to the Times, who claim the Magpies made contact with Manchester United about the Scotland international.
However, Newcastle’s approach was rebuffed. The report adds that Erik ten Hag wants to keep McTominay at Old Trafford, as he prepares for his first season as Man United boss.
They add that the 25-year-old wants to remain a Red Devils player.
Newcastle’s inquiry for McTominay has fallen on deaf ears, but that won’t worry Toon fans.
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Scott McTominay is not what Newcastle need
It’s been an exciting summer so far at St James’ Park, with Nick Pope and Matt Targett joining the club. Sven Botman is set to follow them, with a deal in principle confirmed by the club.
Attentions will now turn to attack, with Eddie Howe needing a forward and a right winger.
There have been rumours about moving for a centre-midfielder, but McTominay doesn’t feel like the type of player we need.
He’s an enforcer in the middle of the park, disrupting play and getting about the pitch with his impressive energy. That would suit Howe, who wants his team to press high, but we already have players like that.
Joelinton fulfils that role, while Joe Willock is also capable. As is Sean Longstaff, who showed signs of improvement late last season.
McTominay is certainly a physical player, with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer calling him a ‘physical monster‘ back in December 2020.
Newcastle know that all too well. He almost saw red for a challenge on Longstaff at St James’ Park in 2019, clashed with Jamaal Lascelles in the same game then got booked after 24 seconds in the return fixture just months later.
A move for McTominay wouldn’t feel like a step in the right direction. He’s a decent player but hardly an improvement on our current options.
Newcastle need more creativity in centre-midfield – someone who can be decisive in the final third. McTominay is not that player.
The Magpies have reportedly tried and failed to sign McTominay, but that’s alright.