According to the Sun, Jesse Lingard prefers a move to Newcastle over West Ham if he leaves Manchester United this summer.
The midfielder’s contract at Old Trafford expires this summer, and he looks all but certain to become a free agent. It has previously been reported that he won’t extend his deal, but the appointment of Erik ten Hag could change things.
However, it would still be a real surprise if Lingard gets a new contract.
That means he’ll become a free agent and can be snapped up for absolutely nothing. And the Sun claim that St James’ Park is his preferred destination. That’s because it would allow him to live closer to his family, while he also ‘likes the look’ of working under Eddie Howe.
However, he could already be a Newcastle player. The 29-year-old was very close to joining the Magpies, but Manchester United’s greed got in the way. They priced Lingard out of a move away, and he’s barely featured since.
Newcastle transfer target Lingard ‘upset’ by Ralf Rangnick snub
The Red Devils played Brentford last night, winning 3-0 in their final home game of the season. Lingard was on the bench, but didn’t get the chance to feature.
Ralf Rangnick instead brought on Edinson Cavani, rather than granting Lingard a farewell appearance at Old Trafford. That’s despite the fact he’s been with them since the age of seven.
According to the Manchester Evening News, Lingard was ‘upset’ by the manager’s decision not to bring him on.
The England international’s brother didn’t hold back on Instagram, slamming Manchester United and Rangnick for their decision.
Lingard’s brother Louie branded it ‘classless’, writing: “20 years of blood sweat and tears. 4 domestic trophies, 3 cup final goals. Not even a farewell. No wonder it’s Conference League next year.”
It’s been a grim season for Lingard. His decision to stay in the summer backfired, then he was denied the move he wanted in January.
He’s barely been given a chance, while Newcastle have thrived in his absence. He could’ve been part of something special at St James’ Park, but was denied that opportunity.
He could get a second chance to join Newcastle this summer, where hopefully he can make up for lost time.
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