Manchester United legend Andy Cole has urged Jesse Lingard to leave Old Trafford on a permanent basis in the summer.

The 28-year-old has been in outstanding form since moving on loan to West Ham, scoring six goals in eight appearances, and Cole believes the attacking midfielder should move on from the Red Devils to get regular game time:

“The opportunity for him to go on loan to West Ham came at a fantastic time. He’s taken it with both hands. Now Manchester United have a decision to make. Take him back or sell him in the summer for a little bit more money than was expected? I think if I was Manchester United, I would move him on. And if I was Jesse I would want to go and play games. Definitely.”

The Hammers would certainly be the favourites to sign Lingard, but there is now believed to be stiff competition for the England international’s signature.

Arsenal were linked with the United star over the weekend, while reports today have mentioned the likes of Inter Milan, Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain as potential destinations.

Whether those rumours are true, we shall have to wait and see, but the increased interest in Lingard will undoubtedly push up the player’s asking price.

The forward only has a year remaining on his contract, but that may not stop United from demanding in the region of £30m.