Declan Rice urges West Ham to sign Manchester United star Jesse Lingard on a permanent basis
Jesse Lingard has thrived since leaving Manchester United to join West Ham United on loan in January.
The 28-year-old has so far made just four appearances for the Hammers but appears to be getting back to his best. He has amassed three goals and one assist, averaging one goal contribution per game. (h/t Transfermarkt)
Lingard was once again in the thick of the things this past weekend as West Ham downed Jose Mourinho’s Tottenham Hotspur. A player who thrived under the Portuguese at United, his strike handed the Spurs boss his fifth defeat in six Premier League matches.
According to the Express, Declan Rice, one of West Ham’s top players, believes Lingard has done enough to warrant a permanent switch to the London Stadium. It is also a view that is echoed by United legend Rio Ferdinand, who sees no future for the player at Old Trafford.
“I’m so happy that we have got Jesse here. Hopefully we can do that for much longer, for next season as well.”
Rice also went on to add that Lingard’s ability to make things happen, makes him an asset to the club. More so, he appears to have hit it off well with his new teammates.
“When you give Jesse the ball you know he is going to do something with it. And he has got a great personality as well. The lads have really taken to him.”
Taking his opportunity!
West Ham not only paid a £1.5million loan fee but also agreed to cover Lingard’s £100,000-a-week wages. There is no option included to make the deal permanent and United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is keen to keep the England international. (h/t The Express)
Valued at £10million and in his prime, Lingard is good value for money. Moreover, David Moyes appears to know how to get the best out of him.
A regular at United under Louis van Gaal and Mourinho, Lingard’s stock has fallen under Solskjaer. He has played a largely peripheral role since last year’s lockdown and is trailing others in the United pecking order.
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It is difficult to see Lingard playing a prominent role for United next season. A parting of the ways would be the best solution for all parties. Given United’s interest in Rice, it remains to be seen if an offer of cash plus Lingard could help us seal the deal.