West Ham has confirmed the signing of Manchester United midfielder Jesse Lingard on loan until the end of the season.
The Hammers have managed to secure a deal for the 28-year-old England international after completing the permanent transfer of Said Benrahma from Brentford, making up space for another loan signing at the club.
I’m excited,’ Lingard, who will wear the No 11 shirt at the club told West Ham TV via the club’s official website. ‘It’s another new chapter in my life.
‘Nothing is guaranteed but I’ve come here to work hard and help the team and bring my experience. That’s the main aim. I just want to enjoy my football and get back playing again and get my feet back on the pitch.
‘There were lots of clubs involved but, for me personally, I felt this was the right move. I’ve obviously had a previous relationship with the manager as he was at Man U and I’ve played under him before, so he knows my qualities and what I can bring to the team.
‘I know a couple of the players as well – I know Dec [Rice] very well from the England side – and I feel I can really settle in here quickly.’
Hammers boss David Moyes added: ‘I’ve seen him play as a young boy, when he was still a wide player on the right, and I’ve seen him play off the left.’
‘He’s played for England as a No 10, he’s played for England as a No 8, and I actually think if we needed him as a False 9, he could do that as well.
‘We’re bringing in that versatility, I’ve wanted to try to get an energetic team at the moment and Jesse has been known for his work-rate and effort, so I think he’ll fit in nicely with what we’ve got.
‘I hope he brings us a little bit of quality too, and a winning mentality from Manchester United.’
Sportsmail understands that Manchester United have negotiated a £500,000 bonus linked to West Ham qualifying for Europe as part of the 28-year-old’s loan deal.
The deal until the end of the season could cost West Ham up to £4million after they agreed to pay Lingard’s £100,000 weekly wages and a £1.5m loan fee.
