Manchester United slap £50m price tag on Newcastle target McTominay

Manchester United have slapped a hefty £50 million price tag on Newcastle United target Scott McTominay, according to the Daily Star.

The Scottish midfielder has fallen below the pecking order but remains an important player for the Red Devils.

Erik ten Hag has favoured a pivot of Brazilian duo Casemiro and Fred at the base of his midfield, limiting McTominay to just ten Premier League starts this season.

However, the 26-year-old has forced his way back into the reckoning following his exploits for his native Scotland in the European Championship qualifiers.

The Man United academy graduate bagged a brace in both fixtures against Cyprus and Spain and has started every game for the Red Devils since.

McTominay repaid Ten Hag’s faith by grabbing his first league goal of the season in Saturday’s 2-0 success over relegation-battling Everton at Old Trafford.

The midfielder has piqued the interest of Newcastle, who are looking to reinforce their squad for next season.

Eddie Howe’s Magpies are on course to secure a place in next season’s Champions League for the first time since 2003 as they sit third in the standings – level on points with Man United.

Saturday’s impressive 2-1 comeback victory over a dogged Brentford side ensured they consolidated their spot while extending their winning run to five league games.

With Joelinton, Bruno Guimaraes, and Joe Willock performing at a top level this term, McTominay would have to fight for a starting berth.

However, the Magpies must first shell out Man United’s asking price, and it remains to be seen if the Red Devils will be willing to do business with a direct rival.

McTominay’s current deal runs out in 2025, so Man United are under no pressure to sell.

But the Scotland international may be open to joining the Tyneside club, especially if his playing time nose-dives again.