Newcastle United are refusing to comment on widespread talk that they have approached Manchester United to sign Jesse Lingard.
But Chronicle Live understands that Manchester United aren't open to the idea of releasing him on loan and want him as a squad player until the end of the campaign at least.
Newcastle were invited into the race to sign Lingard back in October when the winger and his representatives sat in the Shepherd Offshore box.
Since then Lingard has turned down numerous contract offers from Man United.
Having been linked with West Ham and Tottenham Hotspur in January it has emerged that the Red Devils don't want to sell him to a direct competitor for a Champions League place.
Ideally they want him to sign the new deal on the table.
Man United boss Ralf Rangnick previously said when asked about Lingard: "For me, it’s about developing those players but if a player wants to leave because he feels he will not get enough game-time here with us then we can speak about that, but it’s not only about what the player wants, it’s also about the situation of the club.
"Two things need to come together if a player wants to leave – one thing is if he wants to leave, but on the other hand the needs of the club need to be satisfied."
Understandably, Lingard, 29, is a quality player and one that could be available for free by the end of the season.
Given the fact he is out of contract soon, it would take an astronomical bid for Man United to allow him to leave in this window.
A loan would not be out of the question either but it would take a hefty loan fee and Newcastle may see the money invested in a better place in this window or the summer.
We want to hear your thoughts, so LOG IN and leave your comment below
