West Ham quest to land Manchester United attacker Lingard hinges on Champions League
West Ham could have an easier run at signing Jesse Lingard should they seal Champions League qualification, claims Dean Jones.
The Hammers wanted to secure the England international’s services in the summer as well as January, but Manchester United opted to hold on to him.
He’s no closer to signing an extension to his deal that expires at the end of the season, making him a free agent from July 2022.
Discussing the Hammers’ chances of signing him, Jones, a Eurosport journalist, told Give Me Sport, “If West Ham were in the Champions League, then I think that would definitely help West Ham’s case.
“But if they’re not, I think that Jesse Lingard will certainly have the belief that on a free transfer, he could still end up at a Champions League team.”
Move on
Lingard had two separate occasions to join West Ham and he didn’t force his way on either.
Now, with him close to 30 and with the Hammers in no dire need of a number 10, it makes sense to move on from him.
Even if he’s available on a free, he would want a signing on bonus and a salary matching what he’s making at Old Trafford.
It also seems that Champions League football is his priority and we do not see any of the current top four clubs making an offer for him.
Should there be some upheaval at the club in the summer, only then must they pursue the services of Lingard.
As of now, he should not be on any transfer shortlist as David Moyes must continue to plan for the future and not stick with players he clearly has an admiration for.
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