Newcastle have reportedly been told to stump up £50million if they wish to prise Scott McTominay away from Manchester United.
The 26-year-old has been linked with an Old Trafford departure in the summer having failed to nail down a regular starting spot under Erik ten Hag.
Casemiro and Christian Eriksen are the preferred central midfield pairing when both are available, with McTominay stepping in to deputise in their absence.
And due to Casemiro’s ban and Eriksen’s ankle injury, the Scotland international has started the last three Premier League games.
Though with the pair now ready for selection, McTominay may find himself back on the bench, which could see him seek a transfer should he fall down the pecking order.
According to the Daily Star, the Red Devils won’t stand in the way of the player moving on, despite him tied down at the Theatre of Dreams until 2025.
The news outlet has stated that United are seeking a £50m fee for their academy graduate.
It has been said that Magpies boss Eddie Howe is a huge admirer of the midfielder, and has identified him as an ideal addition to his squad at the end of the campaign.
McTominay has been in great form of late having banged in four goals during the international break.
He banged in doubles in the Euro 2024 qualifying wins against Cyprus and Spain, before breaking the deadlock in Saturday’s 2-0 win against Everton.
Though he was fortunate to stay on the pitch after escaping punishment following a clash with Seamus Coleman where he kneed him in the backside, before booting the ball at the Irish defender.
The Carabao Cup winner has been told by Jermaine Pennant to seek a move away in the summer, as he named Newcastle and West Ham as two possible options.
Speaking on The Sports Bar last month, the ex-Arsenal and Liverpool winger said: “I would say go for a Newcastle, maybe West Ham.
“If Declan Rice leaves in the summer, I think that will be a great purchase, a great addition for West Ham.
“They’re similar kind of players.”
Pennant added: “If I was McTominay, I think West Ham is a good shout, it would be a good place to go.”