Jesse Lingard – Manchester United
Where to start with this obvious target for West Ham in the summer. Jesse Lingard joined the Hammers in January on loan with no option/obligation for the move to be made permanent. Lingard has already proven that he needs to be the priority when the transfer window reopens.
The midfielder may have only played four games for the club since joining on loan but has already notched one assist and three goals. Lingard has added creativity and excitement to West Ham’s attack.
Many fans expected Lingard to add depth to a thin attack, but instead, he has become one fo the first names on the teamsheet. Lingard has also brought his winning mentality from Manchester United, which has infected the whole squad.
The team, with Lingard’s help West Ham have continued to challenge for the Champions League places in the Premier League. If the club does qualify for any European competition, then Lingard’s experience would be a welcome addition.
With only one year left on the midfielder’s contract, the Red Devils may have to lower their valuation. They would be risking wasting another year of his career and then lose him for nothing next year. £15 million should be the most that Lingard will cost the Hammers, maybe even less if his form drops before the end of the season.
It is expected that Manuel Lanzini and Andriy Yarmolenko will leave the club in the summer, and Lingard would be a perfect replacement. The midfielder would fill both their spots due to his versatility. The sale of the duo would surely raise enough capital to pay for Lingard.