Jack Wilshere warned Jesse Lingard on talkSPORT the grass may not be greener away from Manchester United, as West Ham reportedly eye a permanent transfer for the midfielder.
Lingard is nearing the end of his contract at Old Trafford with his deal set to expire in June. But the 29-year-old may leave sooner, with the Mirror claiming he is one of several players unhappy under Ralf Rangnick. So, he will consider leaving the club during the winter sales.
The German has only fielded Lingard once in all competitions after taking over from Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Lingard also rarely featured under the Norwegian. The 32-cap ace has played more minutes for England (169) than in the Premier League (87) so far this season.
Lingard additionally last featured in the top-flight in Michael Carrick’s final match as interim manager against Arsenal on December 2. He is also yet to start a league fixture all season.
West Ham eying Lingard return in January transfer window
West Ham are paying close attention to Lingard’s situation at Manchester United in view of a permanent transfer this month. The Express report the Warrington-born maestro is David Moyes’ top target following his successful loan spell in claret-and-blue last season.
The Hammers are also preparing a £10m bid for the midfielder to remain leading the race for a permanent deal. Moyes is keen to strike now rather than wait until Lingard’s Manchester United contract expires in June to avoid West Ham missing out on a transfer.
Newcastle United, AC Milan and Barcelona are also monitoring his situation at Old Trafford and could move in January. But Moyes hopes Lingard’s productive London Stadium spell convinces the Red Devils product to return. He hit nine goals and five assists in 16 games.
Wilshere warns Lingard over Manchester United exit
Former West Ham midfielder Wilshere, however, warns Lingard against rushing into leaving Manchester United in the January transfer window. As despite his lack of game time under Rangnick so far, he could regret walking away from Old Trafford once the dust has settled.
“I think after the six-months he had at West Ham, he probably thought he was going to get a chance,” Wilshere said. “He probably deserved a chance. It’ll be interesting to see what happens this window. He probably deserves to play, he’ll feel he deserves to play.
“The grass ain’t always greener. I had this a few times at Arsenal, with players who didn’t want to be there. Sometimes you need to sit back and look at how lucky you are to be at a big club like that and the fans.
“All right, they’re not challenging, but it’s still a big club and teams go there and are intimidated by that. To be on that side of the fence, rather than going to them places, makes a massive difference.”
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