Manchester United legend Gary Neville has made his discontent known regarding the club’s decision to consider selling Scott McTominay, particularly following McTominay’s standout performance in the Premier League opener against Fulham. McTominay, who has been valued at £30 million, is reportedly on the list of players Manchester United might offload as they continue their pursuit of a new defensive midfielder. The club’s interest in Paris Saint-Germain’s Manuel Ugarte, who has emerged as the primary target, has intensified these discussions. Ugarte, however, comes with a hefty price tag of £51 million, a figure Manchester United is attempting to negotiate down. The talks have involved prominent agent Jorge Mendes, who is playing a crucial role in these negotiations. Should United successfully bring in Ugarte, or another alternative such as Burnley’s Sander Berge, it could spell the end of McTominay’s tenure at Old Trafford.
Napoli has also expressed interest in McTominay, but they appear hesitant to meet Manchester United’s valuation. While United is open to a loan deal with an obligation to purchase later, this option does not seem appealing to Napoli. Fulham, on the other hand, had an initial £20 million bid for McTominay turned down but could come back with a revised offer in the near future.
McTominay’s future at Manchester United remains in limbo, despite his impactful performance against Fulham. The club’s ongoing search for a defensive midfielder to bolster the squad puts McTominay in a precarious position. The prospect of losing a player who has shown consistent dedication and capability has not sat well with Gary Neville, whose vocal opposition underscores a larger sentiment among the club’s supporters and football pundits alike. Neville’s concerns reflect the unease about parting ways with a homegrown talent who embodies the spirit and history of Manchester United.
As Manchester United continues to negotiate with PSG for Ugarte, the situation around McTominay becomes increasingly complex. The involvement of agent Jorge Mendes adds another layer of intrigue, as his influence could significantly sway the outcome of these discussions. If United manages to secure Ugarte or another midfielder, the ramifications for McTominay could be severe, potentially pushing him closer to the exit door.
Yet, for many fans and former players like Neville, McTominay’s potential departure would be a significant loss. Not only is he a player with a strong connection to the club, but his recent performances suggest he still has much to offer the team. The decision to potentially sell McTominay, therefore, is not just a matter of squad depth but one that touches on the club’s identity and the value placed on homegrown talent. As the transfer window progresses, all eyes will be on how Manchester United navigates these critical decisions, which could shape the team’s future and its connection with the loyal fan base.