Jesse Lingard back in West Ham’s sights as Moyes aims to bolster attack

West Ham are weighing up whether to push ahead with a move for Jesse Lingard, who is available on a free after his contract at Manchester United expired.

Lingard had an impressive loan at the London Stadium two seasons ago and David Moyes could look to sign the forward. Moyes wants to improve his options in attack after West Ham finished seventh, meaning they missed out on a place in the Europa League, and is aiming to refresh several areas of his squad.

Related: David Moyes rues ‘missed opportunity’ as West Ham miss Europa League

West Ham, who are working on a deal for the Rennes centre-back Nayef Aguerd, are keen to improve their creative threat. Said Benrahma has been inconsistent since joining two years ago, Nikola Vlasic has struggled since his move from CSKA Moscow last summer, and Moyes knows all about Lingard’s quality. The 29-year-old’s availability without a fee makes his appeal obvious.

Lingard made a huge impact when he spent the second half of the 2020-21 season at West Ham, scoring nine goals and helping them finish sixth. However, Moyes was frustrated in his attempts to sign the England international last summer. Lingard decided to give it another go at Old Trafford, only to find himself on the sidelines for much of the season.

West Ham, whose determination to sign a striker to compete with Michail Antonio has seen them target Chelsea’s Armando Broja, Arsenal’s Eddie Nketiah and Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins, also failed to convince United to part with Lingard last January. It has been a frustrating pursuit and that will come into their thinking when they decide whether to solidify their interest.

Moyes will need to see clear signs that Lingard, who is reportedly no longer of interest to Newcastle, wants to play for West Ham. The manager must also consider whether there are younger alternatives available. Hull’s Keane Lewis-Potter is a target.

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However, if Lingard is ready to return to east London then a move would appear to suit both parties. He enjoyed his loan and is still friendly with many of West Ham’s players. He also has a point to prove after a disappointing end to life with his boyhood club.

West Ham also want a left-back and a central midfielder. They are interested in Leeds United’s Kalvin Phillips and Southampton’s James Ward-Prowse. They have been linked with Burnley’s Josh Brownhill. The Nottingham Forest centre-back Joe Worrall is another target.