Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly approached Manchester United playmaker Jesse Lingard over a potential move in the summer.
According to Sky Sports, Tottenham Hotspur have expressed interest in Jesse Lingard. They have already approached the representatives of the Manchester United playmaker, exploring the possibility of a summer move to North London. Lingard’s current contract at Old Trafford expires at the end of the season, making him a free agent in the summer.
Lingard has endured a difficult phase at Manchester United after returning from a successful loan spell at West Ham United. He has played in just 87 minutes of league football, falling behind the likes of Bruno Fernandes, Paul Pogba and even Donny van de Beek in the pecking order.
Despite the club’s recent run of form, Lingard’s role in the side has not improved. He is yet to even feature in a single minute in the league under new coach Ralf Rangnick. Meanwhile, the German tactician is actively keen on further reinforcing his options in the creative department, having been linked with a move for Florian Wirtz, among many other top playmakers across Europe.
It has raised speculation over Lingard’s long-term future at the club, with recent reports showing no development over a potential contract extension. West Ham are already prepared to snap up the Englishman in the January transfer window, this time on a permanent deal. However, it appears the Hammers are now set to face stiff competition from fellow London club in Tottenham Hotspur.
Spurs’ interest in Lingard stems from Antonio Conte’s desire for a major rebuild as he looks to filter out the squad despite a promising start to his reign. One of the players likely to leave Tottenham in January is Tanguy Ndombele. The Frenchman has fallen out of favour under Conte and was recently booed by his own fans after a dismal FA Cup performance against Morecambe.
Ndombele has been linked with a move to AS Roma, and his potential exit could pave the way for Tottenham to sign a new playmaker, either in January or in the summer transfer window.
While it remains unlikely the Lilywhites will be able to sign Lingard this month, the Manchester United playmaker could be an excellent option in the summer due to his expiring contract. However, it remains to be seen whether the player opts for Tottenham ahead of West Ham, where he has already proven himself and is likely to settle in much quicker.
