Fulham 'make decision' over Premier League transfer target after bid rejected

Fulham are said to have made a decision over their pursuit of Manchester United star Scott McTominay. The Cottagers enjoyed a strong end to last season, but preparations for the new season have been made more tricky by the departure of star midfielder Joao Palhinha to Bayern Munich.

Marco Silva has been able to do some good business, bringing in Emile Smith Rowe from Arsenal on a big-money deal, while Jorge Cuenca has arrived from Chelsea and Ryan Sessegnon from Fulham. But the Cottagers still have work to do, with key gaps to fill in the centre of midfield and at centre-back.

In midfield, United star Scott McTominay was identified as a target, with the Red Devils seemingly willing to sell for the right price. The Scot was vital for the Red Devils last season, but while Erik ten Hag may end up keeping him, it seems that in an ideal world, he would prefer to upgrade.

Fulham reportedly offered £23million to sign McTominay this summer, but they saw their offer rejected. United are said to want as much as £30million to agree a sale, and the Cottagers are not going to stretch to such a high fee.

Sky Sports are now saying Fulham have walked away from a deal, deciding to pursue other targets. Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth, explained: “As it stands, Fulham not expected to return with improved offer for Manchester United’s Scott McTominay. Two bids rejected – latest worth £20m. Still gap in valuation. Fulham’s focus on other targets. Fluminense’s Andre is a player they’ve long standing interest in.”

Fulham boss Silva said of the club’s transfer ambitions at the end of last season: “Two great seasons, but we cannot stand still. We have to move on, if you want to be more competitive, to be always better as a team. On and off the pitch, we have to do things different. We have to be more ambitious as well, in the market for example, to get the best deals we can for the club.”

The Cottagers will now need to look elsewhere, while McTominay’s situation will remain uncertain. The Scot may get reduced appearances this season, and the prospect of that could yet see him push for a move late in the window.