Newcastle United Still Want To Sign This English Playmaker: What Will He Add To Howe’s Side?

In a recent media segment with NUFC Matters YouTube channel, journalist Ben Jacobs stated that Newcastle United still want to sign Jesse Lingard this summer. Jacobs said,

“Nothing other than Dan Ashworth’s arrival has really changed on the Lingard front. So we know that he’s a player that Eddie Howe really admires, and I think Newcastle United are still reasonably hopeful that they can sign him.”

Lingard’s Unimpressive Campaign In English Football

Lingard had a frustrating campaign with Man United recently as he struggled to secure regular playing opportunities for them at the highest level. The 29-year-old found the back of the net twice and earned one assist in 21 matches for the Red Devils last season in various competitions.

The English sensation found himself on the bench on most occasions which could be why he only averaged 0.5 shots, 0.5 key passes and 0.1 dribbles per game in Premier League football.

He was even excellent with his ball distribution after making 88.3% of his attempted passes in league football (stats via whoscored).

What Will Lingard Add To Newcastle United Boss Eddie Howe’s Side?

Lingard is a decent dribbler with the ball at his feet and can make some promising runs with the ball towards the opponent’s penalty area. He has got the vision to cut open the opposition defence with a decisive pass in the final third. The English talent can even strike the ball with power and accuracy from long range.

We can expect Lingard to add more goals and creativity to Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe‘s attack. He could help the Magpies push for a European spot in the Premier League next season.

The fact that Lingard is available as a free agent makes him an excellent option for the Tyneside outfit to pursue during this summer transfer period. The former Man United attacker could prove himself to be a key asset for the Magpies if they are willing to play him regularly in the coming seasons. Therefore, Howe should think about offering the English playmaker a short-term contract this summer.