Aston Villa could reportedly join the race to sign Manchester United attacker Jesse Lingard. Lingard is currently on loan at West Ham United, and has impressed in his stint with the Hammers since joining them in the January transfer window.
According to Football Insider, the Villans could make a move for the Englishman if Manchester United decide to sell him in the summer. The report claims that Aston Villa manager Dean Smith wants to sign two wide players ahead of the next season.
Lingard has made a huge impact at West Ham United and has been a key player in the Hammers’ rise in the table. The 28-year-old has scored nine goals and set up four more in ten appearances for the club. He will enter the final year of his contract with Manchester United at the start of the 2021-22 season.
Jesse Lingard to Aston Villa – How will he fit in?
Aston Villa has had a solid 2020-21 season and are currently competing for a top ten place in the Premier League. Dean Smith’s side have caused a few shocks, including soundly beating defending champions Liverpool.
The Villans, spearheaded by talisman Jack Grealish, could climb further up the table if they can add a few more quality players in the summer and strengthen their squad.
Aston Villa have a strong defence led by Tyrone Mings, while they have energetic and hard-working midfielders in John McGinn and Douglas Luiz, as well as the genius of Grealish. Ollie Watkins, who joined the club last summer, has settled himself well in the Premier League and could have a big impact next season.
The one area that Villa seems to be lacking in quality is the wide areas. Anwar El Ghazi and Trezeguet have been inconsistent, while Bertrand Traore has shown some promise but has taken the league by storm.
Jesse Lingard has now scored more Premier League goals for West Ham (9) than in any of his seasons at Man United.
He's done it in 10 games 😳 pic.twitter.com/e8DIzRa8ir
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) April 17, 2021
Lingard could be a very good addition for Villa, especially if he can keep up his current form. He is a player capable of playing in multiple roles, either out wide on both wings, or as a No. 10, playing behind the main striker. This could allow Grealish to move to the left, while Lingard can play through the middle. The two can switch roles too.
The Manchester United attacker is a smart player who has the ability to find space, as well as score crucial goals, as he has done this season.
Lingard has Premier League experience and could be entering the best years of his career. He could thrive without the pressure of playing for Manchester United, and can be a success in an exciting Aston Villa side.