Manchester United to use Lingard as bait for Leicester star

Manchester United are prepared to offer Leicester a player-push-cash deal in return for James Maddison, claims The Daily Mirror.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer wants to sign a new creative midfielder this month and has earmarked Maddison and Aston Villa captain James Maddison as top transfer targets.

Leicester manager Brendan Rodgers is adamant no player will be sold this month but United continue to be linked with their key playmaker.

The Red Devils believe they can even offer Leicester a replacement to get a deal over the line, with Jesse Lingard touted to be part of United's package.

Lingard's form has declined at a tremendous rate over the last 12 months and he finished 2019 without a single goal or an assist in the Premier League.

The 27-year-old has even lost his place in Gareth Southgate's squad after playing an integral role in England's run to the semi-finals at the 2018 World Cup.

United are reportedly prepared to offer Lingard, who they value at £40m, as well as £45m in return for Maddison, though it's unclear whether Leicester would see that as an attractive proposition.

Maddison is the sixth highest WhoScored rated player in the Premier League this season (7.52) with six goals and three assists in 20 league appearances.

Lingard, meanwhile, has a WhoScored rating of just 6.29 with no goals and no assists in 18 league appearances.