Newcastle United’s dream of signing Jesse Lingard could be over.
The Manchester United midfielder re-emerged as a target last week, and the Magpies have been trying to conclude a deal ever since talk of a loan move emerged.
It was always going to be difficult given the fact that Lingard’s contract expires in the summer. He wants to go out on loan, but Man United want a permanent deal.
As for Newcastle, the Athletic’s David Ornstein claimed they would do anything to land the 29-year-old. However, that doesn’t look to be the case.
That’s because the Athletic have now reported that the deal is on the verge of collapse. They report that the two clubs have failed to agree a loan fee, and Newcastle will now reluctantly look elsewhere.
Devastation for Jesse Lingard and Newcastle
This news is a huge blow for the Magpies. It will be hugely disappoint Eddie Howe, who was no doubt excited by the prospect of possibly managing Lingard. It will also disappoint the Toon owners, who are trying desperately to land reinforcements before the transfer window closes.
And it will disappoint Lingard, who was reportedly interested in moving to St James’ Park. The Athletic state that the England international asked Ralf Rangnick if he could leave on Tuesday, and the Red Devils boss seemingly gave him his ‘blessing’.
But it could all be for nothing. With no fee agreed, Lingard will not be allowed to join the Magpies.
While it’s up to Man United what they do with their player, their treatment of an academy graduate is incredibly poor. He isn’t getting minutes at Old Trafford, but will seemingly be forced to sit on the bench until his contract expires.
Of course, never say never. It was reported back in December that this deal wouldn’t happen, yet it became a possibility once again last week.
But for now, it looks like Lingard is nowhere near joining Newcastle.
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