West Ham are in need of some reinforcements ahead of the second half of the season. The squad lost a lot of depth in the summer and is only a few injuries away from disaster. The club desperately need a striker, but according to reports are targeting a different position.
David Moyes apparently has his eyes on one of his former players Jesse Lingard. The Scot managed the attacking midfielder during his time at Manchester United. Lingard has fallen down the pecking order at Old Trafford and could be available on loan. West Ham are believed to be one of many clubs queuing up for the 28-year-old.
Lingard has plenty of Premier League experience and would undoubtedly be a useful player for the Hammers, but one would question, is he worth the cost. The Englishman’s wages are well over £100,000 p/w which would dent the clubs budget for a new striker.
There would also be questions over the need for Lingard. Moyes already has plenty of players that can play in similar roles to the Red Devil. Manuel Lanzini, Pablo Fornals, Andriy Yarmolenko, Said Benrahma and Jarrod Bowen are all capable of supporting the striker. Arguably the attacking midfield is one of two positions the club is well stocked in.
Jesse Lingard was one of the most promising youngsters in the Premier League not too long ago, but West Ham should avoid signing him.
Another problem with Lingard is that it is unlikely he would have an immediate impact. The midfielder has barely played since Ole Gunnar Solskjær took over at Old Trafford. The Hammers would be making the wise decision to let one of their competitors take him. Tottenham and Sheffield United have also been rumoured to be interested in signing Lingard.
Moyes has brought a new philosophy with his transfers. The manager has targeted young and hungry players with the potential to be sold for a profit. Lingard does not fit this category and it unlikely he would have the motivation to play for West Ham compared to a more promising player.
Lingard has scored 33 goals and provided 20 assists in over 200 appearances for United. A decent enough record, but one the Hammers should pass on.