Speaking to Football Insider, pundit and former West Ham United striker Frank McAvennie has dropped an Irons transfer claim involving Jesse Lingard.

The Lowdown: Lingard eyed by Hammers

West Ham wanting to sign loanee Lingard on a permanent deal this summer is absolutely nothing new, with club insiders ExWHUemployee and Claret & Hugh both backing reports of their recent interest in the Englishman.

It was even claimed that GSB will 'move heaven and earth' to get a deal done at the end of the season, hardly surprising given his sensational spell in east London overall since joining temporarily from Man United.

The Latest: McAvennie drops Lingard claim

However, according to McAvennie, in an interview with Football Insider, it turns out West Ham won't be moving for Lingard after all.

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Indeed, dropping a major claim, the 61-year-old has heard from his sources that the Hammers may not have the available funds now to sign on Lingard a permanent deal - especially after seeing their Champions League hopes quashed.

"I’m hearing from sources they won’t sanction a move for Lingard,” McAvennie explained.

“I hope that’s wrong, they have to go all out to get him for Manchester United.

"If the boy wants to stay, give him all the money he wants. Unfortunately, money is tight at the moment.

“For West Ham to challenge again next season, they need players like Lingard.”

The Verdict: Big blow for West Ham

The 28-year-old has been a revelation since signing for the Irons on loan in January, scoring an incredible nine goals and assisting his teammates four times in 15 Premier League starts (WhoScored).

Over that period, he is also the most threatening West Ham player by shots taken per 90 - averaging 2.6 attempts on goal every match (WhoScored).

Therefore, McAvennie's big claim that they will no longer sanction a permanent deal comes as a truly damning blow to supporters.

Manager David Moyes will also be hoping that GSB do back him in the summer transfer market as he aims to strengthen in key areas.

In other news: West Ham fans rave over this official club announcement, find out more here.