Heading into the closing stages of the summer transfer window, there remain doubts over whether Scott McTominay will be seeing out the campaign in Manchester United colours.
Now being targeted by a host of clubs across Europe, including Napoli, Fulham, Galatasaray, Crystal Palace and Brighton and Hove Albion, the Scot has quickly become United’s most sought-after player.
Reports have strongly suggested that the Red Devils are willing to facilitate McTominay’s exit for a number of reasons: primarily because it would raise the funds they need to sanction a new midfield signing, but also because his sale as a homegrown player would give the club more room for manoeuvre around the Financial Fair Play regulations.
Yet, it’s such a reason that Fulham are now ‘doubtful’ (GiveMeSport) they can prise the Scot away from Old Trafford – because he’s a boyhood Red.
Lancaster-born McTominay, now 27 years old, joined United aged five. He has never completed a loan spell and has instead spent the entirety of his youth and senior career around Carrington.
Additionally, his family are all devoted supporters, having travelled far and wide to see him in action. He said back in 2022 that his loved ones are in the away end ‘every week’, adding that it would be a dream of his because ‘it’s the best atmosphere they’ve ever been to in their life. They absolutely love it.’
As such, leaving United behind – especially for another Premier League club – could prove incredibly difficult for the McTominay clan.
McTominay could rebuff interest to stay put in M16
The decision ultimately lies with him, though, as Erik ten Hag has made it clear he won’t be pushing him out the door.
“We want to actually keep him [McTominay] because he’s a very important player for our squad,” the manager revealed after a pre-season win over Rangers in July.
“We’ve seen what he can contribute last season. When we had the sixes, he could play in a more advanced role. He’s a highly-interesting player for our team.”