Newcastle have 'talks' with England international in battle with Tottenham, Everton and Serie A pair

Newcastle have reportedly been in 'discussions' with Jesse Lingard's representatives over a possible move to St James' Park this summer.

Lingard is a free agent who left Manchester United and has been linked with a number of clubs both in the Premier League and abroad.

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The 29-year-old enjoyed a successful loan spell at West Ham United in the 2020-21 campaign, scoring nine goals and four assists in 16 appearances.

But the Hammers are not among the clubs who would like to sign him on a permanent contract this summer.

A report on Friday claimed that Tottenham entered the race as Lingard is considered a 'low risk transfer' and is seen as a potential 'local option'.

Mirror claims Everton boss Frank Lampard is also 'on Lingard's trail', but suggests Newcastle are ahead in the race for the Man United graduate.

Toon manager Eddie Howe was "desperate to sign Lingard in January" and "talks are believed to be underway" with his representatives this summer.

But no deal has been agreed and Lingard is also said to be considering a move abroad, with Serie A sides AC Milan and Roma both seen as 'admirers'.

The report suggests a move for Lingard could be confirmed sooner rather than later as the striker wants to be in place at his new club to complete a full pre-season and give himself the best chance of making it into the Gareth Southgate's England squad for the World Cup in Qatar.

One transfer Newcastle have secured is the signing of Sven Botman from Lille for £35million.

Speaking on the decision to join Newcastle over AC Milan, Botman said: "Ultimately Newcastle United's big project, coupled with the Premier League, was the deciding factor.

"The latter has been a dream all my life. AC Milan also gave me a good feeling, but Newcastle United felt a bit better at the end.

"I really wanted to go to Newcastle United in January, because I also heard, and it's a cliché, I know, that a train like this doesn't come by very often. But the clubs don't didn't understand.

"And after that maybe it will be better, because now I can experience a lot of preparation and I was able to say goodbye to Lille in a beautiful way. This club deserved it. Staying was also not a punishment for me in January because I knew there were two big Champions League games against Chelsea to come. I now have that baggage too."