Manchester United Transfer News: Jesse Lingard Set for New Contract, Top Rumours

Manchester United are reportedly close to agreeing terms on a new contract with forward Jesse Lingard.

That’s according to Peter O’Rourke of ESPN FC, who has suggested the Red Devils are keen to keep the 23-year-old on board after a strong 2015-16 season. Lingard netted the winner in United’s FA Cup final triumph against Crystal Palace at the end of the previous campaign.

It’s stated that “United are confident of finalising matters soon” with the academy graduate.

During those stints on loan there were doubts as to whether or not Lingard would ever make the grade at Old Trafford, but under former manager Louis van Gaal he found his feet. The Dutchman admired the work-rate, pace and trickery of the winger, who netted some important goals for the Red Devils last season.

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This season started well, with a goal against Leicester City in the Community Shield at Wembley, but injury meant Lingard’s first start only came against Manchester City on Saturday. Sports journalist Liam Canning is unsure whether he should be a key member of the first XI:

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What do you make of Jesse Lingard? Was a bit surprised Mourinho started him yesterday - think he’s a good squad player, not a starter.

— Liam Canning (@LiamPaulCanning) September 11, 2016"

Lingard has all the natural attributes to pose Premier League defenders problems and will always be a factor in matches due to his energy. The new United boss, Jose Mourinho, will love to have him around the squad too, as the forward can play in multiple positions and run himself into the ground for the cause.

So it’s no surprise to see talks have started on a new deal for a player who is popular with the club’s fanbase. Nevertheless, with so much attacking quality in the squad at Old Trafford, Lingard must up his levels if he’s to start matches on a regular basis.

United Eye Grigoris Kastanos

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According to the Daily Express’ Paul Brown, Manchester United have been tracking Juventus youngster Grigoris Kastanos.

It’s suggested Mourinho has asked his scouts to take a close look at the Cypriot international, although the Italian champions want to negotiate a new contract that contains a £17 million release clause. That’s not a sum that’s put off the Red Devils, according to Brown.

Kastanos, just 18 years old, has been in the Juventus youth setup for the last couple of years and having impressed with the Bianconeri primavera, is pushing for a spot in the first-team in Turin. Here is a glimpse of what he is capable of:

The talent is certainly there for him to make an impact in senior football. As noted by Bleacher Report’s Gianni Verschueren, he recently turned in a very impressive performance for Cyprus during a clash with Belgium:

United secured the signing of Paul Pogba from Juventus this summer, having sold the midfielder to the Italian champions in 2012. With that in mind, the Bianconeri will not want to lose another potential star in the making so early in his career.

With the likes of Claudio Marchisio, Sami Khedira, Miralem Pjanic and Stefano Sturaro all vying for places in the Juve midfield, it’s tough to see the teenager coming through and playing regularly for a while yet. However, for the time being, consistency in terms of his club is the most important factor in Kastanos’ development.