Why Leeds United must sign Scott McTominay on loan in January
Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho is ready to allow Scott McTominay leave the club on loan in January, reports the Sun.
The 21-year-old was wanted by Championship sides Leeds United and Aston Villa in the summer, but Manchester United rejected all approaches. However, the Red Devils are now considering loaning the Scotland international out in the January transfer window after a difficult start to his Premier League season.
McTominay became a first-team squad regular for United last season but has not enjoyed the same form this campaign. He has started just twice so far this season and one was in an auxiliary centre-back position in the embarrassing 3-1 defeat to West Ham.
The 21-year-old has come under a lot of fire due to his poor performances this season as Mourinho has opted to play the youngster out of position. The Scottish midfielder was then substituted at half-time in the 3-2 comeback win over Newcastle United.
McTominay is highly regarded at United but Mourinho did criticise him publicly after the dramatic 3-2 victory against Newcastle United prior to the second international break. Now that the young midfielder is struggling to make a mark at the club, it would be a wise decision to loan him out in January.
A temporary move to Leeds United would be perfect for McTominay’s development. Leeds manager Marcelo Bielsa has identified central defence as one of the positions to solidify and McTominay can be used as a defender if he makes a loan switch to Elland Road. The prospect of working under a reputed manager like Bielsa would be appealing for any player, especially youngsters.
The Leeds boss demands energy and focus from his players to carry out his tactics to perfection. Bielsa likes his players to be versatile, intelligent, hard working, composed on the ball and ready to fight until the blow of the last whistle. In that case, McTominay fits the bill perfectly and he can surely improve his game under the master tactician.
McTominay is a versatile player who can be used in any position as per the manager’s need. The Scotland international exemplifies many of the attributes Bielsa looks for in a player. Certainly, the 21-year-old would be Bielsa’s delight and the midfielder should not face much problems adapting to Championship football.
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McTominay has not picked up the momentum this season, hence, a loan move to Leeds could be beneficial for all the parties involved.