According to a report from Manchester Evening News, Manchester United have turned down a £30 million offer for Scott McTominay from West Ham United, as the transfer window remains open for slightly over three weeks. Similarly, West Ham made an unsuccessful bid of £30 million for Harry Maguire. It’s noteworthy that the bids for each player were distinct and not part of a joint proposal.
It was also stated that there are doubts among sources regarding West Ham’s intention to submit another bid for McTominay. However, it is understood that they are contemplating an enhanced offer for Maguire.
McTominay’s Campaign With Manchester United Last Season
Scott McTominay’s performance during the 2022/23 season presented a mixed picture. He commenced the season on a positive note, but his impact waned as the campaign progressed. Across all competitions, he accumulated 38 appearances, contributing three goals and one assist.
In the Premier League, McTominay was less impressive. His average rating stood at 6.55, a decline from his previous season’s rating of 6.89. Additionally, he registered an average of 1.3 tackles per game, 1.9 clearances per game in the first division of English football. However, the Scotland international did well to distribute the ball to his teammates after completing 82.9% of his attempted passes in the English top flight (stats via Whoscored).
Good Decision From Manchester United Boss Erik Ten Hag In Declining The Offer?
Scott McTominay emerges as a versatile midfielder who has held a pivotal role within Manchester United since making his breakthrough into the first team in 2017. His reputation is founded on his formidable physical presence, adept passing skills, and unwavering work ethic.
McTominay embodies a comprehensive midfielder profile, adept in various aspects of the game. He exhibits robustness in tackles, displays astute game-reading capabilities, and boasts commendable passing proficiency. Furthermore, his athletic prowess and unwavering commitment to effort stand out prominently.
His versatility stands as a significant asset, endowing him with the capacity to contribute across multiple midfield roles. Whether as a defensive midfielder, central midfielder, or even a box-to-box player, McTominay’s adaptability positions him as a valuable resource for Manchester United, enabling his deployment across diverse tactical formations. Despite this he doesn’t fit well into Erik ten Hag’s plans for the next season.
McTominay’s contract at Old Trafford lasts until the summer of 2025. Hence, there is no immediate need for the Red Devils to sell him this summer. Nonetheless, ten Hag is determined to strengthen the midfield department by introducing another defensive midfielder to intensify competition with Casemiro. McTominay’s exit would inject substantial funds into their transfer budget, prompting the United manager to include him in the transfer market.
However, parting ways with him for £30 million would be inadequate, and the Red Devils could certainly command a higher sum, especially given his youthful age and considerable potential for growth.