Newcastle United look like they won’t be signing Jesse Lingard, with Manchester United telling the player he won’t be leaving this month.
The Magpies had been endeavouring to land the England international, after failing to sign Hugo Ekitike from Reims.
The Frenchman was supposedly unwilling to make the move at such late notice. The Magpies also didn’t like the proposal of a 30% sell-on clause from Reims.
But Newcastle have now received another blow over Lingard.
Ralf Rangnick had given the 29-year-old the green light to leave.
It was about whether Newcastle could strike an agreement with the Manchester United board.
But it seems they were unable to do that, with the Red Devils telling Lingard he is staying put.
According to Daily Mail reporter Craig Hope, the player is ‘gutted’ by the news.
West Ham were also keen to sign Lingard (Sky Sports).
Obviously, Lingard went on loan to them last January, and the move was a huge success.
It is little surprise they wanted him back, but Manchester United are apparently unwilling to do business with them as well as Newcastle.
A boost for Newcastle as Magpies seek Lingard deal
This is a hugely frustrating update regarding Lingard for Newcastle.
It is clear the player wanted to move, with the World Cup obviously taking place at the end of the year.
It is crazy to think that they wouldn’t let him go given how little he has played this season.
It is understandable they wouldn’t won’t him to go to West Ham. But their desire to keep him makes no sense for them.
It is a hammer blow for Newcastle. Lingard could have been a brilliant addition to the midfield with his creativity and work-rate.
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
