Manchester United are reported to have performed a U-turn over Jesse Lingard and now appear willing to let the player complete a permanent move to West Ham.
The midfielder has exploded into life since leaving United on loan in January.
Indeed, a move away from Old Trafford is just what the Englishman needed to get his career back on track. Lingard had become frozen out in Manchester, suffering a drop in stature since his appearances at the 2018 World Cup.
However, he has scored three goals and assisted two others since his move down south. In fact, he notched his second assist in Saturday’s 2-1 defeat to Manchester City.
United were thought to be against the permanent sale of Lingard. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has challenging him to ‘prove his worth‘ while with West Ham.
However, as per Eurosport, via the Daily Express, United have relented over Lingard’s future and will let him leave. Indeed, it’s claimed United have put a £20m price on his head.
It’s claimed the Hammers did try and make the move permanent in January, only to reject their then £15m offer.
However, it’s claimed United could now let him leave permanently for two reasons. Firstly, Lingard appears happy and seems willing to make the switch permanent.
Secondly, United could use Lingard as bait to help them lure top transfer target Declan Rice. The midfielder is rated at around £60m by the Hammers but they do not want to sell.
However, United hope that by letting them sign Lingard it could smooth their path towards a deal for Rice.