Newcastle United are reportedly determined to sign Manchester United attacker Jesse Lingard before the January transfer window closes for business.
The England international's contract at Old Trafford is due to expire next June, and it is becoming increasingly unlikely that he will sign a fresh deal with the Red Devils.
West Ham United continue to be linked with the playmaker, who excelled on loan at the Hammers in the second half of the 2020-21 campaign.
However, according to the Daily Star, Newcastle are also firmly in the race for his signature, with the Magpies prepared to pay £3m to acquire him this month.
The report claims that Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe believes that Lingard could play a key role in helping the team move clear of the relegation zone in the second half of the season.
The 29-year-old has scored twice and provided one assist in 14 appearances for Man United this season, and he was a late substitute against Aston Villa in the Premier League on Saturday.
Matt Law
