Jesse Lingard transfer latest: Clear frontrunner emerges as sizeable salary offer is tabled

Jesse Lingard is seemingly closing in on his next club amid reports that they have offered to match the wages he earns at Manchester United.

The England man will depart Old Trafford this summer as a free agent, having been with the club since the age of nine. Now 29, the midfielder appears less than happy with his treatment and the club’s refusal to grant him a Red Devils farewell.

During his 11 seasons with United, Lingard has made 232 appearances, scoring 35 goals. However, a lack of opportunties this season leaves a bitter taste, given he was welcomed back into the fold by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

Indeed, he has made just two Premier League starts for United this term, stepping off the bench on 14 other occasions.

Certainly keeping him this season is a move that has backfired for United. Having rejected a near £20m offer from West Ham last summer, Lingard will now leave Old Trafford a free agent.

Despite a lack of action, the clamour to sign Lingard remains a keenly-fought race.

The Hammers, as well as Newcastle, are all being linked with a move. However, lately there have been reports that four Italian clubs, including Juventus, are also looking to pounce.

However, reports in Spain now believe it is West Ham who look set to win the race for his signature.

They are reported to be in talks with his agent over a permanent move to the London Stadium this summer.

And they appear likely to win the race, having reportedly tabled an offer to match his wages at Old Trafford.

According to reports, Lingard currently earns £75,000 a week at United, with the Hammers looking to match that deal.

Jesse Lingard transfer to West Ham ticks all the boxes

A Lingard transfer to West Ham certainly makes a great deal of sense.

The player flourished under David Moyes during his loan spell there. Indeed, it was a big surprise when he did not make the move permanent last summer.

He scored nine goals in 16 appearances while on loan at the London Stadium. As such, he was able to rekindle a career that had been in danger of fizzling out.

And a move back there would allow him to hook back up with a club and a manager who know how to play to his strengths.

Jesse Lingard linked with European giants and Newcastle

Manchester United midfielder Jesse Lingard will leave the club and is linked with PSG, AC Milan, Juventus and Newcastle

In a World Cup year, this is a move that makes sense for all parties.

He will hope to serve another timely reminder to Gareth Southgate too. The England boss will soon begin to turn his thoughts towards his 23-man squad for Qatar 2022.

Lingard will also look to cement his bond with both Declan Rice and Jarrod Bowen. The three players enjoyed a fruitful partnership together.

On the subject of Bowen, the player is reportedly in talks over a new deal that will make him West Ham’s top earner.