Newcastle United reportedly want to sign Scott McTominay from Manchester United this summer, and pundit Danny Murphy believes that is a great idea.
McTominay was heavily linked with a move to Newcastle during the January transfer window, but the Red Devils turned down the Magpies’ advances.
However, it looks like Eddie Howe is going to revisit the Scotland international. The Telegraph have reported that Newcastle want to sign McTominay ahead of next season, with Howe, Dan Ashworth and Steve Nickson all in agreement that he would be a smart addition.
Talk of a fresh move for McTominay has not gone down well with Toon fans, most of which do not want to see the 26-year-old swap Old Trafford for St James’ Park.
However, TalkSPORT pundit Danny Murphy has explained why he thinks it would be a brilliant bit of business by Howe.
Danny Murphy says Scott McTominay is ‘perfect’ for Newcastle
The former Liverpool midfielder was asked on TalkSPORT for his opinion on McTominay amid reported interest from the Magpies.
“I like him a lot,” Murphy said.
“I actually think he gets a bit of unfair criticism at times. But the way Eddie Howe plays and the way Newcastle play – he’s perfect.
“Super athletic, box-to-box, really hard working, good at spotting danger, decent with the ball.
“Some Newcastle fans might argue they’ve got Longstaff who fits that role, but we’re talking about a club that is hoping to be in the Champions League. That means playing high quality games midweek, weekend.
“They need competition for places. They need more numbers in midfield. They’ve shown that recently with the injuries.
“I think McTominay would be a super signing for them.”
Newcastle certainly need more depth
While the jury remains out on McTominay, Murphy raises a valid point. It is very clear that Newcastle need a deeper squad for next season.
It is looking highly likely that we will be in Europe, and there is a chance that we could qualify for the Champions League. And to compete on two fronts, Howe will absolutely need more options. We have already seen this season how a couple of injuries and suspensions can deplete the current squad.
With Howe always opting to play three midfielders, he ideally needs to make two additions this summer. While McTominay, who earns £78,000-a-week at Man United, would not be a superstar signing, he could be an astute addition.
The recruitment team have got more right than wrong since the change of ownership, with pretty much every signing delivering. Anthony Gordon is the only player with a question mark next to his name, but that is because he has rarely featured.
If Newcastle do decide to make a move for McTominay, it is because they believe he can be a good addition to the squad. He has a wealth of experience at the age of 26, and it is believed that he can still improve further under Howe’s guidance.
He might not be a popular arrival, but McTominay could be a worthwhile investment in the eyes of Murphy.