Jesse Lingard will stay at Manchester United, it has been decided, in a hugely frustrating end to the transfer window for the forward.
Despite not starting a Premier League match this campaign, the 29-year-old was told at the start of the month he would not be allowed to leave Old Trafford. That stance changed as the cut-off drew closer.
Newcastle came calling with a loan approach and that initial attempt was rejected on financial grounds.
Beyond interest from the Saudi-backed Magpies, former loan club West Ham also launched an attempt to sign him hours before tonight's 11pm deadline. However, after seemingly given a late move the green light, key figures at Old Trafford have issued another dramatic U-turn.
Lingard will now stay at United until the end of his contract this summer.
Needless to say, supporters have raised concerns over the treatment of the academy graduate, especially in light of last season's successful time at West Ham.
Scoring nine goals and providing five assists in 16 outings, Lingard has played 88 minutes for United in the Premier League since returning to Manchester from east London.
Here are a selection of comments posted about this development on social media platform Twitter;
@_onemufc said: "Circus at United. Feeling sorry for J-Lingz."
@pardz_king posted: "Even for the Glazers this is a new low."
@Hat17_MUFC added: "Had to stop Lingard move. It's a no-brainer when you don't sign replacements."
What do you think about the Lingard decision? Have your say in the comments section below.
@MPDunckey85 said: "Absolutely dreadful management from all parties."
@Ant_Dale86 posted: "On the one hand I feel for Lingard. On the other I'm utterly baffled at mismanagement or the lack of rotation and players underused."
@YayohKE added: "After what United have done to Lingard, I hope Ralf Rangnick makes him a regular starter."
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