Jesse Lingard has reportedly rejected a new contract offer at Manchester United, as he seeks firm assurances about his first-team prospects at Old Trafford.
The England attacker has entered the final year of his deal and has been offered fresh terms to extend his stay with the Red devils
However, the 28 year old has rebuffed United’s initial approach and is keen to ensure he will get the opportunity to play regularly before making a decision about his future.
But ESPN sources that if nothing is agreed then Lingard will be able to leave on a free at the end of the season. He will also be free to start talks with clubs from outside of England from January.
Lingard, who has made over 200 appearances for the Red Devils, wants to be playing regularly to keep his place in Gareth Southgate’s England squad ahead of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
The attacking midfielder missed the cut for the Euros, despite starring on loan at West Ham.
There was plenty of interest in Lingard over the summer. However, United wanted to keep him as a valuable squad asset.
So far this season he has made just one substitute appearance, in the 1-1 draw at Southampton.
