Howe can land dream Shelvey upgrade as NUFC plot bid for “beautiful” £60m-rated target - opinion

Newcastle United have had a fairly busy start to their summer transfer window in terms of bringing new players to the club.

After securing a permanent deal for Matt Targett following his loan spell from Aston Villa last season, the Magpies have since brought in Nick Pope and Sven Botman.

Looking at the transfer window so far and the club’s business during January, the Toon have shown that they aren’t shy when it comes to signing players from fellow Premier League clubs.

With some weeks ahead before the current transfer window closes, another top-flight figure who has been linked with a move to St. James’ Park is Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay.

Having appeared in 120 Premier League games for the Red Devils, the midfielder certainly has the experience to hit the ground running for the Toon should he join Eddie Howe’s side this summer.

In addition, the Scotsman – who is currently valued around £60m according to CIES – could give Newcastle an upgrade on one of their current midfield options in Jonjo Shelvey.

Looking at their two previous Premier League campaigns, the 25-year-old eclipsed the Englishman in a defensive regard by racking up more successful tackles, successful pressures, interceptions, blocks and clearances (via FBRef).

The Scotland international even has a knack for being rather useful in front of goal as well as defending his own. His strike against Burnley last December was described as “beautiful” by Belgium manager Roberto Martinez.

His overall performances for Manchester United in the Premier League last season earned McTominay a respectable season rating of 6.89/10, making him their sixth-highest rated player for the campaign according to WhoScored. By the same metric, he would also have