Pundit bemoans Manchester United blocking 'perfect' move for Jesse Lingard to Newcastle

Shay Given has bemoaned Manchester United’s decision to block Jesse Lingard’s loan move, saying he would have been “perfect” for Newcastle.

The winger looked set to make the move to St James’ Park on deadline day, having been earlier told by Ralf Rangnick he was free to leave the club on loan in search of more game time.

But, just as a deal with Newcastle looked to be back on track after earlier attempts in the window had failed, United blocked the move, meaning Lingard will remain at Old Trafford for the rest of the season.

The England international’s contract at United expires in the summer, meaning the Magpies will get another chance to try and secure his services, although they’re likely to face competition from West Ham, who had also shown interest in trying to secure a return to the London Stadium for the 29-year-old.

Newcastle were by far the busiest side in the January transfer window, with the Toon splashing the cash after their Saudi takeover as they try to stave off relegation this season.

But former Magpies goalkeeper Given believes Lingard could have been the icing on the cake for his old side.

“He would have been perfect for Newcastle, of course. Lingard’s a fantastic player,” Given told Sky Sports.

There has been confusion over why United chose to block Lingard’s move to Newcastle, given the player had been given the go-ahead by Rangnick.

United have claimed their original plan was for the winger to stay for the remainder of the season, despite Lingard having expressed a desire to leave.

And with discussions over a new contract having ended in November, Lingard now looks set to leave Old Trafford for free in the summer.