Newcastle plot move for Man Utd star with 'talks held', despite criticism from club legend

Manchester United have reportedly held talks over a potential January sale of Scott McTominay - but it is expected that the midfielder will remain at Old Trafford.

The 26-year-old started United's 3-2 defeat to Arsenal on Sunday, replacing the suspended Casemiro.

He completed the full 90 minutes at the Emirates Stadium, but was one of several players criticised by United legend Roy Keane on Sky Sports after the game.

Keane said (quotes via Daily Mirror): "I think the last few days have been difficult with the dropping points last minute against Palace and the defeat today, so yeah, that's what the game does to you.

"United weren't at their best, but you think they could have hung on for the draw, take a point and move on, but it goes back to where United made progress.

"But then come the end of the game, Shaw's still at left-back - question marks over him - Wan Bissaka, Fred's back in midfield, McTominay. It's as if United haven't moved on from their problems of the past."

McTominay Man Utd talks held

The Athletic claim that United have had discussions over McTominay's future at the club, with Newcastle having expressed interest in signing him.

It is added that the Red Devils need to sell players in order to boost their incomings budget and ensure that they are fully compliant with Financial Fair Play (FFP), with the latter reported to be a reason why Erik ten Hag has been unable to spend big fees during the January transfer window.

United's sole signing is forward Wout Weghorst on loan from Burnley, and it is unclear whether any new players will come through the door at Old Trafford.

The same source adds that the limited time remaining in the window means McTominay will likely stay at his current club, given the difficulty in reinvestment before the month of January ends.

Transfer journalist Dean Jones, meanwhile, has told GiveMeSport that Newcastle are ready to target the signing of Everton winger Anthony Gordon, although they may face competition from Chelsea for his signature.