Newcastle United are reportedly continuing to consider making an approach for Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay.
During the summer transfer window, the Magpies committed to spending £55m on the acquisition of Sandro Tonali from AC Milan.
However, on Wednesday, it is expected to be revealed that the Italian will serve a minimum of a 10-month ban for illegal betting activity during his time at San Siro.
Tonali is said to have admitted betting on his own team and has allegedly accepted a suspension that will keep him sidelined until next August.
While Newcastle would take the positives out of such an outcome with a three-year ban having been on the table, it leaves Eddie Howe short of options in the engine room.
© Reuters
The 23-year-old Tonali has made eight starts and three substitute outings in all competitions during 2023-24, highlighting his value to the team and squad in general.
Nevertheless, Newcastle are left with the conundrum of how to improve the depth of their midfield options when they are currently restricted by FFP.
According to The Athletic, club officials are prepared to toy with the idea of making an ambitious move for McTominay.
McTominay has spent his entire career at Old Trafford, contributing 22 goals and five assists from his 217 appearances in all competitions.
© Reuters
Despite facing criticism at various stages of his time in the first team, McTominay is currently in favour with Erik ten Hag, scoring three goals in his last three outings.
That said, when every player is fit, the Scotland international may drop out of the team, and he has just over 20 months remaining on his contract, albeit with a one-year option.
Man United are unlikely to contemplate any loan bid courtesy of Newcastle emerging as direct rivals for the European places in the Premier League table.
With Newcastle unable to afford the size of fee that would be requested by their Man United counterparts, a transfer looks unlikely unless McTominay specifically requests a move to St James' Park.
Darren Plant
