According to recent reports, West Ham United have suffered a blow to their chances of signing Jesse Lingard this summer, as a number of elite European clubs have entered the race for the 28-year-old.

The report by ESPN claims that, as a result of his breathtaking form since joining West Ham on loan from Manchester United, the Hammers will now have to battle the likes of Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid and Inter Milan for the signing of Lingard this summer, with all three clubs thought to be closely monitoring the England international ahead of the upcoming transfer window.

It is also reported that the £75,000-per-week player's representatives have informed Manchester United that he will not be used as a makeweight in any potential move for Declan Rice this summer.

Transfer Tavern Take

Considering the fact that Lingard has now scored eight goals and registered three assists in just nine Premier League appearances for West Ham, it is not overly surprising to learn of the new interest in the attacking midfielder.

However, while all three of the clubs mentioned are indeed heavyweights of the Champions League, should West Ham go on to qualify for Europe's elite competition come the end of the season and the 28-year-old clearly enjoying his football in east London, the Irons should not be ruled out of the race for Lingard just yet.

In other news: West Ham make approach for £12.6m-rated ace; GSB could get him for nothing this summer - find out more here!