Ex-manager: Lingard can be ‘amazing’ Tottenham signing after source update
Alex McLeish has claimed Jesse Lingard could be a big upgrade on the attacking options at Tottenham if he replicates his West Ham form.
The former Scotland boss, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, admitted he had been blown away by the 28-year-old’s “rise from nowhere” since January.
A Manchester United source told Football Insider (July 10th) Lingard is one of two Manchester United players discussed by Nuno Espirito Santo in talks over a swap deal for Harry Kane.
The latest news from a Spurs source is that Lingard is a target although a possible exchange deal is extremely complex and no agreement is close.
Lingard dazzled on loan at West Ham after joining the Irons in January.
McLeish admitted he would be a valuable asset to Spurs if he could replicate his performances.
Asked if Lingard would be an upgrade on Spurs’ current options, McLeish told Football Insider’s Russell Edge: “Well, if he plays to the level he played at West Ham, he will be an absolute improvement.
“I don’t think there’s any doubt about that. Jesse obviously kind of slowed down the last couple of years, when he was an England regular. That can hurt a player very badly.
“To do what he did at West Ham last season and help them to fifth-place finish was amazing. It was a rise from nowhere, really.
“He was getting criticism at Man United, he was not involved in the team, never really picked at all.
“Then to come and play almost instantly at the level he played that then of course. I think if he continues that form, then he’ll be an asset to Spurs.”
Lingard netted nine goals and contributed five assists in 16 games for West Ham.
He still has a year left on his contract at Manchester United.
In other news, Nuno tipped to block exit of Tottenham player with nine starts as first new signing close.