A board confidant says there is a big stipulation in a deal for star who’s perfect for West Ham’s style as agreement on move edges closer with Jesse Lingard.
There was something of a shock at the start of last week when it was revealed Jesse Lingard was back at Rush Green training with West Ham.
Lingard is of course a free agent after being released by Forest, who he joined ahead of West Ham last summer.
The midfielder shone during his unforgettable six-month loan spell at the London Stadium where he helped fire West Ham to within one win of Champions League qualification and their record Premier League points total.
Initial frosty reception for Lingard return has thawed among many fans
Reports initially claimed Lingard was being permitted to train with the Hammers as a “gesture of goodwill in a bid to keep his fitness up”. But as pointed out by Hammers News from the start, this was always an unofficial trial with a potential contract waiting at the end of it.
David Moyes has confirmed Lingard will continue to train with West Ham and reports have intensified that he will sign a short-term deal with the club soon. Although, it must be remembered, as a free agent West Ham are not bound by Friday’s 11pm deadline to get that done.
Initially, going by the reaction on social media and fan forums, supporters were largely against the idea of re-signing Lingard.
But the frost has thawed and West Ham fans are – on the whole – now much more open to the idea.
Board confidant: Big stipulation in deal for star who’s perfect for West Ham as move edges closer with Jesse Lingard
Particularly against the backdrop of West Ham’s unashamed return to identifying as a counter-attacking side in a league full of Pep Guardiola disciples and sideways passing merchants.
Supporters remember how perfect jet-heeled Lingard was for that style and system. And, as a homegrown player, Lingard ticks another important box for the Hammers.
Those still unconvinced by a deal to bring back Lingard may reconsider after a new update from Sean Whetstone.
The board confidant says there is a big stipulation in a deal for the star who’s perfect for West Ham’s style as an agreement on a move edges closer with Lingard.
Lingard deal ‘heavily incentivised on appearances’ but a current Hammer must make way
Whetstone says talks are progressing with the attacking midfielder – who can also operate as a second striker. But any deal with be ‘heavily incentivised on appearances’ and a current player will have to leave to make room in the squad.
“Talks are progressing with Jesse Lingard on a short term deal which be heavily incentivised on appearances,” Whetstone said.
“The 30 year old has been training with the West Ham squad and on verge of regaining his match fitness.
“Assuming a striker takes up the remaining squad position another Hammer would need to depart to make room for Lingard.”
