Transfer News: Fringe Man United playmaker prefers move to Merseyside club if he leaves this January | OneFootball

Transfer News: Jesse Lingard prefers a move to Everton if he leaves Manchester United

According to Football Insider (h/t Manchester Evening News), Manchester United ace Jesse Lingard is on the radar of Everton amongst other Premier League clubs.

Saudi-backed Newcastle United and London-based West Ham are two other Premier League clubs keeping tabs on the Englishman. Lingard, of course, spent the second half of last season with the Hammers on loan.

He impressed so much during his time there that he was a staunch contender to make the England squad at the 2020 UEFA Euro this summer. It was not to be, and since returning from West Ham, the midfielder has struggled for action.

With the brilliant Bruno Fernandes playing in the number 10 position, he is going to have to work very hard for playing time in that role. And with Mason Greenwood, Amad Diallo, and Jadon Sancho some of the many options down the flank, it is unlikely that he features there regularly as well.

Lingard to Everton?

The report mentions that the Toffees are leading the race to sign the Man United academy graduate. He is keen to remain a part of the England set-up and a January move could help his chances to make the Three Lions squad for the FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

This seems like an ideal move for both parties. While it isn’t mentioned if the transfer would be a loan move or a permanent one, the latter may appeal to United if Lingard doesn’t renew his contract.

As it stands, he will be out of contract next summer and would then be available as a free agent. If United can secure any amount for him in January, then it would be financially more sensible than losing him on a free.

It remains to be seen if Ole Gunnar Solskjaer would be willing to sanction a transfer that could sacrifice depth in the middle of the park. But from Lingard’s perspective, a move that sees him get more playing time obviously makes sense considering how close the World Cup is now.