Ian McGarry has suggested on the Transfer Window Podcast that West Ham United could have hope of landing Jesse Lingard, although they may have to wait for Manchester United to maximise his value.
West Ham are thought to be keen on landing Lingard on a long-term deal, as he has made a huge impact since joining on loan in January.
The England international has crashed in six goals in eight games for the Hammers since leaving Old Trafford.
Despite this eye catching run, Manchester United do apparently seem willing to cash in on the 28-year-old.
But McGarry says that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side want to make sure they raise the biggest possible sum, meaning West Ham could have to pay a sizeable fee.
“It seems that United are prepared to play a waiting game, because it is our information that they will wait until Lingard is named or not in England’s Euro 2020 squad this summer and if he is then they’ll wait again, so that the possibility that he could increase in value gives them an advantage in terms of income,” McGarry said.
“Therefore he will be allowed to leave the club, despite his very impressive form at the Olympic Stadium.
“That would be the case regardless of who United try to buy.”
Lingard’s place in the England team is far from certain, especially as Jack Grealish should be back fit before the next squad is announced, but he is a player who Gareth Southgate seems to trust.
Lingard scored on his last outing for West Ham as he helped them to a 3-2 win, and if he continues to hit the back of the net at this sort of rate then he could be impossible for the Three Lions to ignore this summer.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
