According to The Athletic, Ralf Rangnick has sanctioned a move away for Jesse Lingard following talks with the 29-year-old this morning.
Chief reporter David Ornstein reveals that we have also submitted an improved bid for the attacking midfielder today, leaving the final decision in the hands of Manchester Utd’s board.
He also claims that West Ham have returned with a new proposal, however it’s believed the Red Devils have no intention of strengthening a top four rival – especially when he bagged nine goals and five assists in 16 appearances for the Hammers last season!
So, Lingard is keen to come, Rangnick WILL let him leave – despite Greenwood’s arrest and loan exits for Martial and Van de Beek – and we’ve launched an improved bid, meaning it’s now down to Man Utd.
Will our new offer be enough or could they reduce their demands after a £12m ‘survival bonus’ was deemed unacceptable by NUFC?
Elsewhere, Sky Sports’ Keith Downie has revealed that Hugo Ekitike’s move to Tyneside is now hanging in the balance.
A £25m deal has been agreed with Reims, but the player may take some persuading to make the move to St James’ Park – questioning whether this may be the wrong time to move abroad as a 19-year-old in the middle of his first full season in senior football.
Here’s what Downie has had to say when speaking outside the club’s training ground just a few moments ago:
