Newcastle United have been told they need to sign Jesse Lingard this summer if they’re to challenge for Europe next season.
Lingard looks set to leave Manchester United at the end of the current season, with his contract at Old Trafford expiring this summer. The 29-year-old’s departure has proven a sore point for the club and the player, with Lingard’s brother criticising United last week for not giving the winger a run-out in his final home game.
An exit for Lingard has been on the books for over a year, with the England international having spent the second half of last season on loan at West Ham. Having been given assurances over his playing time at Old Trafford by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, the winger elected to stay with United last summer, but found his opportunities severely limited.
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Attempts to secure a move away in January fell flat, with a loan to Newcastle being blocked by United on deadline day. The Magpies though are once again being linked with Lingard as the summer approaches.
Newcastle are likely to be among the biggest spenders in the upcoming transfer window following their Saudi takeover earlier in the season. With their riches comes heightened expectations, and former defender Woodgate believes Lingard is a must for them.
Asked by BritishGambler.co.uk whether Newcastle could qualify for Europe next season, Woodgate said: "It depends who they sign, and they made some really astute signings in January. They’ll do it again, and it’s just about who they’ll attract and if they can get that world class talent.
“People like Jesse Lingard, who are really good, solid Premier League players. I think Newcastle need to aim to get into Europe like West Ham did.
"You can’t tell me that Newcastle can’t be better than Wolves next season? Wolves have done well but Newcastle will be aiming for them. Eddie Howe has done a terrific job, and loved what he did at Bournemouth and how he made them play, and he’s brought some of that to Newcastle."
On Lingard, Woodgate added: "I think if he comes to Newcastle he will be the big fish, and he’s not the big fish at Man United. If he goes he will be one of the main men, and that might help him.
“I like him and think he has great qualities, and great attitude. He will want to prove a few people wrong. He’s only started two games this season and he hasn’t had a fair crack of the whip this season. If you look how bad Man United have been, has he had a fair crack at it? I don’t think so!"
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