Tony Cascarino has stated that Jesse Lingard would be a ‘very good signing’ for Newcastle, but West Ham have the ‘advantage’, as he told talkSPORT.
For the second season running, Lingard once again finds himself out of the first-team picture at Manchester United and Cascarino thinks either West Ham or Newcastle would be a top-quality move for him.
It’s obvious why the Hammers hold that advantage, one being their current Premier League position, the fact that they are in Europe and the relationship Lingard already has with the east London club.
But can the big-pockets of Newcastle lure Lingard towards their direction during the winter transfer window?
Given Newcastle’s current situation, they have nothing to lose by knocking on Man United’s door for Lingard, even if the player says no.
But former Republic of Ireland striker Cascarino warned Lingard to put the financial aspect aside and think about the club that will benefit his future.
“It looks like he was misled,” said Cascarino. “They didn’t have the greatest start to the season where you can go ‘well, you can’t get into the team’. There have been some down times at Man United and he deserved an opportunity.
“Jesse needs to play football. He is 28-years-old. He has had a decent career, but not quite got over the line at United. Go out on loan again if he has to and prove what his worth is because they might want to do a permanent.
“It’s a good signing for Newcastle, I believe, and for him – I think Newcastle need more goals from other areas and Jesse could provide that and he can provide assists because they can’t keep relying on Calum Wilson.
If West Ham come in for him: “Then he has a choice. But don’t make it on money. Whatever move he takes, he will get well paid. Whether it’s West Ham or Newcastle. Make the career. The advantage West Ham have is that he knows the manager.”
Whilst Lingard moved to the London Stadium on loan last season, it’s perhaps wise he moves on a permanent basis next month.
There is no point in the attack-minded midfielder going around in circles and, at the age of 28, he is starting to hit the peak of his career.
If West Ham are serious about bringing him back, and there’s no reason why they wouldn’t be, then they would probably win the race for his talents.
And if that does happen, then it will increase their chances of going one better this season and securing Champions League football.
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