David Moyes will take a hard look at signing Jesse Lingard permanently this summer if he maintains his form for the remainder of the season.
Lingard, who on loan from Manchester United until the end of the season, scored twice on his debut in the midweek 3-1 win at Aston Villa.
The Hammers paid a £1.5m loan fee plus £2.5m in wages with a £500,000 bonus if West Ham qualifies for Europe.
There is no option to buy within the loan deal but as Lingard only has 12 months on his contract with Manchester United on his return but he could be allowed to leave Old Trafford for a transfer fee of around £10-£15m in the summer.
Moyes, who briefly managed Lingard while he was in charge at Manchester United, feels the 28-year-old still has a lot to offer and could flourish at the London Stadium. ‘He is a more mature boy now and is someone who is getting to the prime of his career,’ said Moyes.
‘He’s at the stage where he wants to play well and he wants to be on the pitch. We’re not getting carried away but we are obviously really pleased with Jesse.
‘He was always a fit young player so getting some match practice for him is important. We don’t want to put too much pressure on him but he has set himself a great standard by his performance.
Providing he plays like that every game then 10 – 15 mill would be a great bit if business for 28 year old in today’s market. But if he does continue like this and i have no doubt he will then i can see Man U doubling that price to 30 mill + at the very least.
Sounds like a busy summer for DM – starting with two necessary signings – Dawson and Lingard!