Pundit raises Newcastle-Lingard fears as journalist delivers update after £5m offer
Noel Whelan has questioned Jesse Lingard’s “commitment” as Newcastle United push to sign Jesse Lingard from Manchester United.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 29-year-old is “protecting himself” by seeking a temporary move this month.
As revealed by Football Insider on Friday (21 January), Newcastle had a £5million-plus loan offer for Lingard knocked back last week by United.
However, as reported by CBS journalist Ben Jacobs on Monday (24 January), the Magpies are confident of striking a temporary deal over the coming days.
Lingard is reportedly wanting a loan in order to get game time and assess his options ahead of his contract expiring this summer.
Whelan admitted he understands the playmaker’s stance but questioned how committed he could be to the Magpies’ cause.
Whelan told Football Insider’s Russell Edge: “He probably doesn’t want to sign a permanent deal with anybody right now.
“The only reason why he doesn’t want to sign permanently with Newcastle is because of their predicament and where they are in the league.
“He doesn’t want to be playing in the Championship. To him, he sees that he’s protecting himself, as you would do as a player.
“Just in case, worst-case scenario, they can’t turn it around when he joins them. Then you’ve got that battle of getting out of the Championship.
“I understand his point of view. On the other side, it doesn’t show much commitment to Newcastle’s cause if he wants to protect himself. If they go down then it’s a case of see you later.
“I’m sure he does want to come and play football. There’s no doubt that he wants to come and play football.
“At the same time, you want to see that loyalty and commitment from a player. You’re willing to fork out some money for him.
“It’s one of those where someone’s going to have to think long and hard. Is the loan deal better for Newcastle at this stage of the season, and for the player? In my opinion, I think it is.”
Lingard sat on the bench for Manchester United’s 1-0 win over West Ham on Saturday (22 January).
He has made just two starts in 14 appearances this season.
In other news, Football Insider can reveal Newcastle United have agreed terms of new senior hire.