Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Newcastle United have now 'started' contacts over a potential move for Jesse Lingard in the January transfer window.

The Lowdown: Developing story...

The Times claimed last week that the St James' Park club have offered a record deal to the 28-year-old would make him the highest earner in their history and have duly made the Manchester United midfielder their priority signing next month.

His current contract at Old Trafford is set to expire in the summer, meaning that he can leave as a free agent in just a few months' time.

As such, January may present the perfect opportunity for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) consortium to pounce, as the Red Devils will surely want to cash in at the risk of losing him for nothing.

The Latest: Contacts have 'started'

As per Italian football journalist and transfer expert Romano, contacts have now 'started' with Newcastle over a potential move for Lingard, although 'nothing' has been agreed as of yet.

They are 'seriously interested' in bringing him to Tyneside, although it is an 'open race' for his signature.

The Verdict: Get it done

The fact that Lingard can leave for free in the summer means that the Magpies could get him on the cheap in the winter window, and he could seriously help in their push to avoid relegation from the Premier League.

Described in complimentary fashion as a 'joke' and a player who 'has four lungs' by former United youngster Angel Gomes recently, his energy and work rate would be much appreciated among the Toon Army as they bid to avoid the drop. The 28-year-old has also shown his quality on the ball, with nine goals and a further five assists during a very successful loan spell at West Ham United last season (Transfermarkt).

With Newcastle needing to get out of trouble and Lingard not getting much of a look-in at Old Trafford, failing to start a Premier League game this season, it seems like a move which would suit all parties involved.

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