McAvennie: My 'sources' tell me this is West Ham stance on signing Lingard after Europe blow
Frank McAvennie claims West Ham won't sanction a move for Jesse Lingard after seeing their Champions League hopes dashed.
The former Hammers hitman, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claims the club won't have the money to sign the attacker permanently.
West Ham drew 1-1 with Brighton on Sunday, leaving them five points off fourth position with two games left to play.
While a top four finish isn't impossible, it is extremely unlikely which means the club will miss out on the financial boost Champions League football brings.
The Daily Mail previously claimed West Ham want to make Lingard’s move permanent after an impressive start to life in the capital.
Last month, this site revealed that Aston Villa have joined the race to sign the England international who is held in high regard by the club’s coaches.
McAvennie, who still has connections at his former club, admits money will be tight this summer and this could rule out a move for Lingard.
"I'm hearing from sources they won't sanction a move for Lingard," McAvennie told Football Insider correspondent Ben Wild.
"I hope that's wrong, they have to go all out to get him for Manchester United.
"If the boy wants to stay, give him all the money he wants. Unfortunately, money is tight at the moment.
"For West Ham to challenge again next season, they need players like Lingard."
Lingard has scored nine goals in 14 appearances for the Irons since joining on loan from Manchester United in January.
The Hammers face West Brom and Southampton before the season wraps up this weekend.