Sky: PL outfit cool interest in United ace in what could come as a substantial blow to INEOS’ transfer plans

After seeing their first two proposals rebuffed by Manchester United, Fulham have now cooled their interest in Scott McTominay, per Sky sports’ Dharmesh Sheth.

The Cottagers’ latest rejected offer was £20 million, while their opening bid was thought to be around the £15m mark. However, United value their midfielder in the region of £25m.

Holding out for a higher price may prove detrimental to the club in the long term, as raising funds is crucial if there are to be any further additions across the squad before the window closes. A centre-back is now essential following Leny Yoro’s lengthy setback, as well as a striker to ease the goalscoring burden on Joshua Zirkzee while Rasmus Hojlund is sidelined.

On Monday evening, David Ornstein confirmed that the Reds were ending their pursuit of Manuel Ugarte to consider alternative targets – although you’d struggle to see how they could sanction a marquee midfield signing if no sales are ratified in the coming weeks.

Read more: Ornstein – United transfer carries ‘particular appeal’ to Serie A ace as he closes door on contract talks; swap deal mooted

United struggling to find takers for available players

McTominay, 27, was garnering the most interest of any United player. Galatasaray were keen admirers alongside Fulham, though only the Premier League outfit went as far as tabling a bid.

Aaron Wan-Bissaka is expected to complete a move to West Ham, albeit when they’ve reached an agreement on personal terms, but his exit would only pave the way for Noussair Mazraoui’s arrival from Bayern Munich.