Newcastle United have reportedly now offered a record deal to Jesse Lingard in order to try and sign him in the January transfer window.
The Lowdown: Midfielders galore
As the St. James' Park faithful have been linked with the likes of Nicolo Zaniolo, as well as Harry Winks and Ross Barkley in recent days, it is clear that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) consortium want to bring in some new midfield players for Eddie Howe.
The Daily Telegraph reported that Lingard was one of four players that the North East club were looking to target next month, and there now appears to be an update on the situation...
The Latest: Offer prepared
As per The Times, the Tyneside outfit have now offered a record deal to Lingard that would make him the highest earner in their history, and have made him their priority in the winter window.
His current deal at Manchester United is set to expire in the summer, meaning that he can leave on a free transfer in just a few months.
Talks have already taken place with his advisers, as he has been offered a four-and-a-half-year deal significantly in excess of the £100,000-per-week salary of the Magpies' current top earner, Miguel Almiron.
The new owners are also ready to offer a substantial transfer fee to sign Lingard, as the Red Devils are well aware that he could end up leaving for free.
The Verdict: Get it done
Even if the fee would be substantial, it should still not be as much as Lingard is worth, given the length of his contract.
Thus, the Toon could have a real bargain on their hands if they end up securing his signature in January.
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Lingard showed everyone what he is still capable of during his loan spell at West Ham United last season, scoring no fewer than nine goals and made a further five assists in 16 games in total in the Premier League (Transfermarkt).
His performances even made Roy Keane, who is known for overly criticising players, dub him as 'outstanding' and always having 'talent' back in April, and if he can rekindle that sort of form at NUFC, he would be a real snip.
In other news, find out which 'amazing' top-flight star Newcastle have been urged to sign here!