Everton enter race for West Ham target Lingard

 

Everton are monitoring Jesse Lingard's future at Manchester United, claims The Sun.

 

Lingard's future at Old Trafford remains in doubt despite Ole Gunnar Solskjaer confirming he is in his plans for next season.

 

The England international spent the second half of last season on loan at West Ham and was a revelation for the Hammers.

 

Lingard narrowly missed out on a place in England's squad for Euro 2020 but the fact he was even in contention capped a remarkably turnaround for the 28-year-old.

 

West Ham would like to sign Lingard again this summer but are not interested in matching United's £30m valuation.

 

The Hammers could risk missing out on Lingard all together with new Everton manager Rafa Benitez circling.

 

Benitez is keen to overhaul Everton's attacking options, having already signed Andros Townsend and closing in on Demarai Gray.

 

 

United will have to make a decision on Lingard's future before the start of the season as he has entered the final 12 months of his current deal.

 

Lingard would sign new terms if assurances were given about regular playing time but United will have to cash in if that is not possible.

 

Only Harry Kane (18) and Kelechi Iheanacho (14) have played a direct hand in more Premier League goals than Lingard (13) in 2021.