Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer reportedly considers Scott McTominay to be his first-choice defensive midfielder heading into the new Premier League season.
The Red Devils added to their midfield ranks by bringing in Donny van de Beek earlier this summer - their only signing of the window so far - creating more competition for places in the middle of the park.
Fred and Nemanja Matic also featured often last season, while Paul Pogba and, further forward, Bruno Fernandes are considered guaranteed starters.
The Athletic reports that McTominay will be a regular member of the first team in 2020-21 too, with Solskjaer regarding him as his first choice in defensive midfield.
The report adds that United had earmarked Jude Bellingham for that role ahead of the transfer window, but were forced to revise their plans after missing out on the youngster to Borussia Dortmund.
McTominay featured 27 times for United in the Premier League last season, scoring four goals.
Barney Corkhill
