Manchester United midfielder, Jesse Lingard has rejected the offer for a new contract at Old Trafford amid concerns over game time.
The England International, Jesse Lingard snubbed the opportunity to re-unite with West Ham United over the summer after spending almost half of the season on-loan in the club. Despite the guarantee of chances to play at West Ham, the midfielder chose to return to his mother club, Man United where he was determined to prove his worth to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
Things didn’t turn out as expected as Lingard, in the new season, seems to struggle for play time. The attacking midfielder has not started a game for Man United so far this season although he scored twice and laid on an assist in England’s win over Andorra on Sunday.
The 28-year-old wants assurance over game time at his boyhood club with concerns that a lack of opportunities and playing time will impact his place in the England squad ahead of the Qatar World Cup next year.
And now, he is into his final year of £ 100,000 a week deal at Old Trafford and he will be able to leave the club on a free transfer at the end of the season if no agreement is found.
David Moyes was keen to bring Lingard back to East London after his stellar spell on loan last season where he scored nine goals and created five assists in 16 appearances.
Lingard made it clear to the Hammers that his intention was to stay at Man United this summer and Moyes moved ahead to sign attacking midfielder Nikola Vlasic who has taken the No.11 shirt worn by Lingard.
However, there has been suggestions of a fresh approach from West Ham in January should the United academy graduate not get the game time he wants. Though, Vlasic’s form will also play a role in the decision.