Manchester United playmaker Jesse Lingard is reportedly trying to force through a deadline day move to Newcastle United.
According to The Athletic’s David Ornstein, Manchester United remain in contention of losing Jesse Lingard late in the window, as the player looks to force his way out of Old Trafford. Lingard is expected to hold talks with Ralf Rangnick in the morning, hoping to convince him to sanction a loan deal to Newcastle United until the end of the season.
Newcastle have been interested in Lingard ever since the start of the January transfer window. While West Ham United were believed to be the desired destination for the Englishman, it appears the player is prepared to settle for NUFC. He is currently seeking Rangnick’s help to get the deal across the line on deadline day.
A much-maligned figure in the past, Lingard earned the biggest breakthrough in his footballing career during the second half of last season. He enjoyed an excellent short-term loan stint at West Ham, being involved in 14 goals in 16 Premier League matches. His exploits in the final third helped the Hammers secure European football.
West Ham have been in the running to sign Lingard permanently in January. However, Manchester United have shown no intention to part ways with the Englishman in the middle of a season, citing fears over the lack of depth in the creative midfield unit.
The Red Devils have held negotiations with Newcastle in the past surrounding a loan deal for the 29-year-old. But they were demanding the Magpies to cover the player’s wages for four months, pay £2.5 million loan fee and another £12 million if they manage to remain in the Premier League at the end of the season.
The offer was deemed unacceptable by the Newcastle hierarchy, who have stepped back from negotiations for the time being. And although it appears Lingard himself is looking to convince Rangnick to potentially lower his demands, his attempts might be futile for multiple reasons.
With the transfer window almost done and dusted, Manchester United have practically no time to find a replacement. More importantly, the Red Devils are braced to lose Donny van de Beek to Everton, whereas Paul Pogba has struggled with injuries. So it is essential for Rangnick to keep hold of someone like Jesse Lingard, who can offer back up to Bruno Fernandes during the second half of the campaign.
