Newcastle transfer news: Toon open Lingard talks, but face competition from AC Milan and Juventus

Add as preferred source on Google

Newcastle United have reportedly opened talks to sign Jesse Lingard on a free transfer.

The midfielder almost joined the Magpies in January, but was denied a move to St James’ Park by Manchester United. They priced their academy graduate out of a transfer, despite having no intentions of playing him.

Lingard has sat and watched from the bench as Man United falter, while Newcastle fly up the Premier League table.

But the Red Devils won’t be able to stop the 29-year-old this summer, with his contract set to expire. Even the arrival of Erik ten Hag won’t convince Lingard to stay according to the Telegraph.

The Northern Echo have reported that Newcastle have ‘initiated’ talks with the England international, with Eddie Howe very keen to add him to his squad.

He would have been a welcome recruit in January, with Newcastle ending the window light in attack. He would still be a good signing for the Toon, and he’ll certainly have a point to prove to Manchester United.

Lingard was recently branded ‘not good enough‘ by Roy Keane, having struggled this season for minutes. However, he was ‘outstanding‘ for West Ham during a loan spell. That’s the kind of Lingard who Howe wants at St James’ Park.

Juventus and AC Milan to rival Newcastle for Lingard transfer

Newcastle might have a difficult job convincing him to move to the North East.

The Telegraph claim that some major clubs are looking to land Lingard on a free. There’s reportedly interest from Italy, with AC Milan and Juventus eyeing a deal.

The Telegraph’s report claims a move to Italy is a ‘serious option’ for Lingard.

They also claim that Paris Saint-Germain are linked. Now that would be a real surprise, but it also feels like the least likely option.

While he’d get the chance to play with Lionel Messi and Neymar, would Lingard really find a way to get in that attack? He can’t even get in the Manchester United team at the moment.

Despite the interest from major European clubs, Newcastle must feel like they’re in a strong position to land Lingard. They desperately tried to sign him in January, and the club has only improved since then.

Howe’s desire to sign Lingard must surely impress the player, who’s spent years not being wanted at Old Trafford.