'Doesn’t seem bothered' - Pundit warns Newcastle off swoop for 'unique' ace after what he's seen

Former Scotland striker Frank McAvennie has warned Newcastle United against making a move for Manchester United attacking midfielder Jesse Lingard this summer. 

This comes after the Magpies were linked with a move for the 29-year-old amidst interest from West Ham United, where the former England regular enjoyed a magnificent revival whilst on loan last season.

Lingard directly contributed to 14 goals in just 16 Premier League outings for the Hammers in 2021 before returning to a bit-part role at Old Trafford, starting just twice in the current league campaign.

With his Red Devils contract now set to expire amid a low-key exit from his boyhood club, the Toon have been advised to steer clear of Lingard…

Speaking to Football Insider, McAvennie suggested that the 32-cap England midfielder’s apparent lack of ambition this season should be enough evidence for Eddie Howe to avoid making a move for him.

The 62-year-old explained his scepticism of Lingard by saying: “He’s a talent but if he’s going to Newcastle he’s going for the money.

“He’s just sat about this season. I don’t get it. He had the chance to go last summer? Why didn’t he take it?

“He’s lost his England place. The way he has handled himself doesn’t sit right with me. If I didn’t play I was devastated. Lingard doesn’t seem bothered at all.

“I’m afraid I don’t think this would be a good move. He had the chance to leave Man United and decided he would stay there. He’s just stayed on the bench, I can’t get that round my head. He was never going to get a game at Man United.”

Whilst McAvennie’s points are all salient ones, Lingard has already proven that he is capable of rekindling a stuttering career once before, and Howe would almost certainly back his managerial