Manchester United have rejected loan approaches for Jesse Lingard this month, with Newcastle the latest side to express an interest in the midfielder.
Lingard is keen to leave the Red Devils in search of regular first-team football after failing to make a single Premier League start so far this season, with a host of clubs interested in the England international who is out of contract at the end of the campaign.
Newcastle want to sign Lingard and are prepared to cover his wages and offer a loan fee of around £2m, as the Magpies seek further additions in their bid to avoid relegation this season.
The Times are reporting that Newcastle have made contact with United over a deal for Lingard and would prefer a permanent move, but are prepared to sign the midfielder on an initial loan given their precarious position in the Premier League’s bottom three.
United have so far rejected loan approaches and are reluctant to sanction Lingard’s departure to potential top-four rivals, with Leicester, Tottenham and West Ham among the clubs interested in his services.
Lingard starred during a loan spell at West Ham last season, scoring nine goals in 16 league appearances, and United are fearful another run of similar form at a rival side could jeopardise their push for Champions League football. Spurs and West Ham are understood to have already seen approaches rejected.
Newcastle’s position in the bottom three gives them an advantage in their pursuit of Lingard, who could join England teammate Kieran Trippier and Chris Wood in moving to St James’ Park this month.
The Magpies also remain in talks to sign Sevilla centre-back Diego Carlos as the club’s new ownership look to provide much-needed investment in the side.
