Sheffield United and manager Chris Wilder are trying to convince Jesse Lingard to sign this month.
The Sheffield Star reports that representatives for Wilder have met with Lingard in person.
The Blades are keen to bring in two loan players during the January transfer window to try and improve their fortunes.
They are currently 11 points from safety at the bottom of the Premier League table following Sunday’s 3-1 home defeat to Tottenham Hotspur.
Lingard has been strongly linked with a move to Bramall Lane. However, the Manchester United midfielder is understood to be reluctant about joining a relegation fight.
Yet his advisors have told Lingard signing for Wilder’s side will not hinder his chances of a high profile move this summer.
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It seems the 28-year-old’s time at Old Trafford has run its course and he is expected to leave the club at the end of this season.
Putting himself in the shop window for the rest of 2020/21 may be no bad thing.
Nice are also thought to be interested, but Wilder believes Lingard would prefer to stay in England.
The Blades boss also thinks the England international has both the talent and experience to help his team battle against the drop.
Should Sheffield United end Jesse Lingard pursuit?
Although some could argue it’s exactly the situation the club are in, this latest report reeks of desperation.
Lingard has been presented with the opportunity to join the South Yorkshire side and clearly has doubts.
That is perfectly understandable considering their position. At the halfway stage this term, the Blades have five points. They’re on course to be relegated with the lowest ever points tally – currently standing at Derby County’s 11 in 2007/08.
Lingard is concerned about being part of that and that’s fine. But don’t then plead with him to change his mind.
Lingard would provide some much needed top flight experience and creativity to a demoralised squad. But only if he wants to contribute.
Otherwise they would simply be signing a loanee who doesn’t want to be there. And also has his sights firmly set on his next move.