Ian Wright has waded in on Jesse Lingard’s future and how Newcastle United ‘haven’t gone in harder’ to try and sign the Manchester United player, as he told Premier League Productions (27/01/22 at 1:25 pm)
Only days remain before the January transfer window slams shut and Lingard is set to be one of the main talking points.
Newcastle want to sign the Englishman, but the Athletic report that they find Man United’s loan fee demands ‘unacceptable’.
As things stand, Lingard isn’t leaving Old Trafford and Newcastle won’t be watching his goalscoring talents in their colours.
Of course, Lingard will probably travel up to Newcastle with only hours left on the deadline clock because that’s how this crazy winter transfer works.
But Wright thinks that if Lingard doesn’t move this month, then, in the summer, when he is a free transfer, ‘clubs will be lining up’ for the player.
“You mention Jesse Lingard,” said Wright. “The way it has gone with Man United. He showed at West Ham what he is capable of doing and how much work he has put in to hit the ground running.
“If he goes for free, then clubs will be lining up for that kind of talent and I am very surprised that Newcastle haven’t gone harder to go make that deal happen.
“Plus, Man United are trying to get some form of money. At the end of the day, Jesse is probably going to see it out.”
Lingard not moving to St James’ Park would be music to the ears of their relegation rivals.
During his spell at West Ham, the 32-cap England international played a huge part in the London club earning Europa League football.
And you could probably bet your bottom dollar that the Magpies are still a Premier League team next season if he rocks up in the North East.
But, just for the player himself, if he wants to break into Gareth Southgate’s jam-packed midfield, then he’s not going to be doing it by playing ‘I spy with my little eye’ with Donny van de Beek on Man United’s bench.
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