Manchester United are set to lose Jesse Lingard following a breakdown in negotiations over a new contract.
The England international has put a host of clubs on red alert following reports that he is expected to leave Old Trafford either in January, or on a free transfer in the summer.
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Lingard, 28, has been a bit-part player since returning to Man United after his loan spell at West Ham ended.
He has scored twice in five league appearances this season, but manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has continued to use him sparingly.
And the under-fire Norwegian conceded Lingard is not happy at his minimal role for United especially considering the club’s recent poor form.
Solskjaer said: “Jesse is training really hard, really well and he’s ready and available for me, disappointed he’s not playing more.
“In regards to contract situations and talks, I’ve not been in them very closely.
“For me, Jesse is still a big part of this squad and important and he gives quality to the group every day.
“Every player wants to play as much as possible, with Jesse and all my players. They’re working really hard, can’t fault the attitude when they’re called upon.
“Jesse has done well when he’s played for us and with the games coming up he’s going to play a part.”
According to Sky Sports, Lingard may even look for a loan move in January after rejecting a new contract offer that was less than what he currently earns.
West Ham have naturally emerged as favourites to sign their former loanee considering his form under David Moyes last season.
Lingard greatly impressed in east London, firing the Hammers into the Europa League with his nine goals and five assists.
He also earned an England recall under Gareth Southgate and narrowly missed out on the Three Lions’ Euro 2020 squad.
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Yet West Ham are not the only Premier League club interested in Lingard with Newcastle among his suitors following their big-money takeover.
The attacking midfielder is also expected to attract a number of offers abroad with Italian giants AC Milan in the race to sign him.
Lingard could even choose to reunite with former United boss Jose Mourinho at Roma to play behind compatriot Tammy Abraham.
Barcelona are another possible destination with the Spanish outfit’s financial troubles meaning they can only sign players on the cheap.
Here are the top choices to sign Lingard in January in full, according to SkyBet. Odds correct at time of writing on Friday, November 19.
- West Ham 7/4
- Newcastle 4/1
- AC Milan 8/1
- Roma 8/1
- Barcelona 16/1
