Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay has reportedly emerged as a January target for Bayern Munich.
The Scotland international was heavily linked with a move away from Old Trafford during the summer window, with Newcastle United, West Ham United and Fulham all said to be keen to sign him.
McTominay remained with Man United past the deadline, though, and he was handed his first Premier League start of the season in Saturday's contest with Brighton & Hove Albion.
The 26-year-old played 85 minutes of what proved to be a 3-1 loss for the Red Devils, but he could find it difficult to secure regular starts this term.
Sofyan Amrabat will soon be fit to boost the midfield, while Mason Mount is also close to returning from injury, with both players ahead of McTominay in the pecking order.
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According to The Sun, Bayern have identified McTominay as an alternative to Joao Palhinha, with the Portugal international signing a contract extension at Fulham.
The Bundesliga champions came close to signing Palhinha on transfer deadline day, only for a move to fall through at the final moment, with Fulham unable to sign a replacement.
Bayern are said to be planning to reignite their interest in the winter, but McTominay has allegedly been identified as a back-up plan.
The Munich giants are said to be determined to sign a defensive midfielder at the start of 2024, and McTominay could be available for a relatively low fee considering the current market.
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The Scot again found it difficult to make his mark at club level on Saturday, but he is currently excelling for his country, netting six times in his last five competitive appearances.
McTominay has another two years left to run on his contract at Old Trafford, with the option of an additional 12 months.
The midfielder has made 212 appearances for Man United in all competitions, contributing 19 goals and five assists in the process.
McTominay has featured on 17 occasions in the Champions League for the Red Devils, with his side now preparing to travel to Germany for their group-stage opener with Bayern.
There will be pressure on Man United to respond in Munich, with the team losing three of their first five Premier League matches of the 2023-24 campaign.
Matt Law
