Paul Merson has suggested West Ham United sell Manuel Lanzini in order to sign Jesse Lingard from Manchester United, as he told Sky Sports News (01/01/22 at 2:30 pm).
The Sky pundit stated that he ‘would do a deal’ if West Ham sold Lanzini for ‘£20 million’ and then purchased Lingard for ‘£30 million’.
Lingard, who has once again seen his game time reduced at Old Trafford this season, revived his career at the London Stadium last January.
But since then, he has once again gone backwards and he may well be on the move now the transfer window has re-opened.
Former Arsenal double-winner Merson was asked about West Ham signing Lingard and he shared the problem David Moyes faces.
“Yes, I would say that (a no-brainer for someone like Jesse Lingard),” said Merson. “But how much would you have to pay for, Jesse? £30 or £40 million?
“You have got Vlasic, Benrahma, Fornals and Bowen. You have got all them kinds of players that where he will play. I like Lingard.
“You said to me on the last show, they might get rid of Lanzini. It depends, if they can get rid of Lanzini for £20 million, then get Lingard for £30 million. I would do a deal.
“But if you are going to keep all them players. Then there is going to be a problem of playing all these players. Who to play or who not to play – some managers don’t like that problem.”
Well, Lanzini showcased his class on New Year’s Day when he netted a brace for his side during West Ham’s 3-2 win at Crystal Palace.
It was a reminder from the Argentine as to what he can do, including him scoring a quite brilliant second for his side.
But that hasn’t stopped rumours surfacing this month that he could be on his way out, including the likes of Leeds showing interest in him.
However, with Benrahma now heading for the Africa Cup of Nations, there is no way Moyes will let someone like Lanzini leave.
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