Leicester’s tentative approach to sign ex-Man United star

Leicester City have reportedly made an approach for the free transfer of Jesse Lingard in the summer. Here is what to know about the possible signing.

About five years ago, the English attacking-midfielder was considered one of the better talents in the Premier League. He was creative, forward-looking, and a strong character despite the appearance of being a little childish. Yet somehow, it fell away. Since then, the player has had to leave Manchester United on a free and joined promoted side Nottingham Forest.

The longevity of that deal is already in question: it is unlikely Forest will look to keep the player – who has exorbitant wages – when they continue overhauling their side, be that in the ‘Prem’ or in the Championship. Leicester are also teetering on the edge of the abyss, looking ever more likely to fall into the second English division themselves. That is one reason they like Lingard.

Why Leicester City want Jesse Lingard

The English attacking-midfielder is a good player. He may no longer be youthful, exciting, interesting, or even a particularly gifted talent, but he remains a decent player. Within the Championship, Lingard could do the job fairly well, so would be a replacement for James Maddison should the player look to leave following relegation. This being said, Aaron Ramsey would be a better fit.

He would be on a free transfer, with lower wages than he is currently on – certainly less than ‘Madders’ – and would offer enough of a creative outlet to impact the game. The midfielder has also been with the Foxes before, so the King Power club have an idea of his personality and how to use him in the dressing room to boost morale.

Experience is also key. Lingard played with ‘United’ for a long time, and was a fairly important player to them for a long while before falling out of favour in competition with significantly more impressive players. Experience is key if your main thought is to get promoted straight away.