While there is still so much to play for in the Premier League this season, Newcastle United look set for a busy summer in the transfer market.
It cannot be easy to plan for the summer just yet given Newcastle do not know what European competition they will be playing in but, already, the links are starting.
Indeed, one of the names most frequently linked with a move to St James’ Park is that of Scott McTominay’s.
Eddie Howe is thought to be a big fan of the Manchester United midfielder, who pundit Danny Murphy hailed as the “perfect” signing for Newcastle last month.
Still, those at Old Trafford might have other ideas.
Man United could offer McTominay as part of deal to sign Declan Rice
According to the Daily Mail, Man United are keen on a move for West Ham star Declan Rice.
The England international has also been linked with a move to Newcastle but Erik ten Hag is reportedly eager to bring him to Manchester.
Interestingly, the report suggests McTominay could be used as a makeweight.
They claim West Ham admire the Scotland international and would consider him as part of a £120m package for Rice.
Man United would surely rather sell to West Ham
Newcastle and Man United are neck-and-neck in the Champions League race and have already contested a domestic cup final this season.
It seems unlikely they would want to sell to Newcastle if there’s any possible way of avoiding it. Strengthening a rival when ten Hag is trying to restore former glories hardly seems like the wisest idea.
With Newcastle reportedly not willing to be held to ransom by their rivals, Man United are in a very strong bargaining position.
If they can sign Rice and let McTominay move to somewhere other than St James’ Park, it would be a major frustration for Howe’s side this summer.
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