West Ham have lodged ‘improved’ transfer bid for Manchester United’s Jesse Lingard loan move

West Ham United have reportedly lodged an “improved” loan bid for Manchester United’s Jesse Lingard.

The England international spent the second half of last season with the Hammers, scoring nine goals in 16 appearances.

Manager Ralf Rangnick has given the 29-year-old his blessing to leave, with Newcastle United strongly linked to the attacking midfielder.

However now the Athletic’s David Ornstein is reporting that the Irons have also lodged a loan bid for Lingard, with better terms than last season.

Ornstein said: “West Ham United lodged a new proposal for the 29-year-old attacking midfielder — with better terms to those on which they took him for the second half of last season.

“United’s board have so far refused to sanction the departure of Lingard to current rivals, in the form of West Ham and Tottenham, or potential future competition such as the Saudi-owned Newcastle.

“But with the player determined to leave, Rangnick supporting his desire and suitors pushing hard to take him, pressure is building on United to relent prior to the 11pm deadline for deals to get done.

“Lingard initially planned to stay this month and fight for a place ahead of his contract expiring in the summer.

“But a lack of game time this season has altered that stance and it is now United who must decide whether to keep an unhappy squad member or find an agreement to let him a go.”

West Ham fans have been desperate for Lingard to return to east London, after his successful spell last season.

The Irons’ top four bid has faltered in recent months, and David Moyes will be desperate for more fire power to bring Champions League football in the London Stadium.

It is thought Lingard’s first choice is West Ham, however Manchester United’s hierachy has previously been firm on not selling to Champions League rivals.