Sky Sports journalist Dharmesh Sheth has shared a live-on-air transfer update out of West Ham United involving former Irons star Jesse Lingard.
The Lowdown: West Ham eye Lingard reunion
Hammers boss David Moyes has been seeking a reunion with the Englishman since his phenomenal 2020/21 second-half loan spell at the London Stadium.
The former West Ham loanee bagged a brilliant nine goals and five assists over 16 Premier League starts and Moyes has made no secret of his desire to seal a permanent deal since then.
GSB and head of recruitment Rob Newman attempted to sign the 29-year-old in the January transfer window, but to no avail as Manchester United refused to budge on terms.
The Latest: West Ham back in?
According to the latest from Sheth on Sky Sports, it appears that the Irons are still firmly in contention to sign Lingard on a free transfer now that he's confirmed to be leaving Old Trafford.
The reporter explained: "A final one, potentially arriving, and I say potentially arriving - this is one that has been in the pipeline and been of interest to West Ham United ever since he had a fantastic loan spell with them in the 2020/2021 season, the back-half of that season, Jesse Lingard joined.
"I'm told, that West Ham remain interested in Jesse Lingard, and are keeping an eye on his situation.
"Now, we're told also that there are other areas of the pitch that are priority at the moment, but that doesn't mean to say that if Lingard wanted to come to West Ham, West Ham wouldn't be interested. Finances could prove to be the crucial factor here."
The Verdict: Finally seal the deal?
Lingard's availability as a free agent could gift Moyes his best-ever chance to finally seal the 29-year-old on a permanent basis, and we believe that an attempt should be made.
Recently hailed as 'special' by Red Devils goalkeeper David de Gea, the Three Lions ace thrived during his temporary spell in east London, and it could be a very shrewd move for West Ham with zero transfer cost.
Lingard could also inject some much-needed creativity in the final third for Moyes along with adding strength in depth, especially considering that they will once again be in four competitions next season.