Newcastle ‘hold talks over Scott McTominay transfer but face battle to convince Man Utd to agree to deal’

NEWCASTLE have reportedly held talks with Manchester United over a shock January move for Scott McTominay.

The Magpies are keen to add a midfielder to their squad to help sustain their top-four charge.

Eddie Howe's men sit third in the Premier League after 20 games.

And, according to , Howe thinks McTominay could help his side stay there.

Talks over a January transfer have been held - but Man Utd are expected to turn down any formal offers.

Toon were interested in McTominay in the summer, however a move did not materialise.

And summer 2023 transfer cannot be ruled out, if they don't get him this month.

Should McTominay join Newcastle's exciting project, he would be a key part of Howe's squad moving forward.

The 26-year-old is having to settle for a squad role at Old Trafford following the big-money arrival of Casemiro from Real Madrid.

Despite handing McTominay limited game time, manager Erik ten Hag says the Scotsman is a "great player" for the team.

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Speaking on McTominay's selection ahead of Sunday's 3-2 loss to Arsenal, Ten Hag said: "I'm convinced this is the right solution, Scott can do the job, he's a great player for our squad.

"He's a great player for this team and I think he's also making a good development.

"I had something in mind for where Fred could have played, a role like last week against City, but during the game, we can change if necessary."