By Noel Whelan

21st Jan, 2022 | 1:30pm

Newcastle have tabled bid for 'perfect' Wood ally after source's £5m reveal today - pundit

Manchester United playmaker Jesse Lingard would be the “perfect” attacking signing for Newcastle United this month, according to Noel Whelan.

The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted the 29-year-old would unlock the “superpowers” of the other attacking options on Tyneside.

As revealed by a Newcastle source to Football Insider earlier today (21 January), the club have had a £5million loan bid rejected by Manchester United.

The Red Devils are holding out for a permanent deal as he heads into the final months of his contract.

Lingard, who has rejected a new deal at Old Trafford, is understood to be interested in a move to St James’ Park.

Whelan suggested the England international would help Eddie Howe get the best out of his other forwards.

Whelan told Football Insider’s Russell Edge: “He’s worth taking on board because he will make a difference to the side.

“I think that’s what’s missing behind Saint-Maximin, Chris Wood and Almiron, that playmaker.

“That one player that can find the pass, can do something a little bit different like we saw at West Ham last season.

“He’s very intelligent and he’s got a great technique. I think that’s what is missing in Newcastle’s side at the minute.

“You’ve got a great front three with all kinds of different superpowers. Just behind them is where they’re lacking in that creativity. Lingard, I think he’s perfect.”

Lingard has started twice in 14 appearances for Manchester United this season.

He has played just one minute in the club’s last seven Premier League games.

In other news, finance guru has claimed Newcastle United are plotting their “next big appointment” after new chief is revealed.