West Ham insider ExWHUemployee has claimed that Jesse Lingard wants to join the Hammers permanently this summer and suggested that the club are confident in getting a deal across the line.
The permanent future of the on-loan 28-year-old has come under the microscope this week after his performances apparently drew the attention of Leicester City amid reports suggesting that his parent club Manchester United could look to retain his services next term.
However, Ex has allayed fears that the Irons could miss out having been unable to secure an obligatory buyout clause, suggesting that Lingard has himself made his intentions clear. The insider told the West Ham Way podcast (Wednesday February 24th):
Lingard doesn’t have a clause. I think he will leave Manchester United, he does want to join West Ham. West Ham officials are confident that he will sign for us but there will be other clubs interested.
The attacking midfielder has made a huge impact during his short spell in east London so far, scoring three times in four Premier League appearances and constructing some team goal celebrations.
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Given the start he has made at West Ham, it comes as little surprise that Lingard would want to prolong his stay at the London Stadium. Having already proven himself to David Moyes, a return to Old Trafford to be a bit-part player all over again wouldn’t be a progressive step.
The one downside is that, prior to having his contract extension triggered in December, the Hammers could have signed Lingard for nothing this summer.
There will now be negotiations with Manchester United to hash out, although any desire from the player to make the deal happen should help move things along smoothly.
