Manchester United star tipped to become ‘living legend’ at Newcastle United

Former England defender Paul Parker believes Newcastle United transfer target Jesse Lingard can become a “living legend” if he completes a move to St James Park.

The Magpies remain in negotiations with Manchester United over the England midfielder and hope a deal can be struck ahead of Monday’s transfer deadline, although it is proving extremely difficult.

Lingard has struggled to find his way into Ralf Rangnick’s plans after making just one start since the former RB Leipzig head coach was named as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s successor at Old Trafford in November.

That sole start came in a Champions League group stage draw with Swiss club Young Boys and Lingard has only played a further six minutes of football under the German over substitute appearances in the Premier League and FA Cup.

Former Manchester United midfielder Parker insisted Lingard can become a success if he moves to Tyneside this month and can make himself a firm favourite with the St James Park faithful.

‘He’ll be a living legend in Newcastle’

Parker told MyBettingSites: “If it is gonna happen, he’s going to be at Newcastle, which has got a big support base.

“Bigger support when they’re doing well.

"If he goes and does well there, then he’ll be a living legend in Newcastle.

“He can then do as many Instagrams as he likes in Newcastle, because they’ll accept that if he’s there and does well and gives his hundred percent.

"That’s what he’s got to do, when he goes to Newcastle, give his hundred percent and his life will be so enjoyable.”

Parker insisted Manchester United supporters would not show any resentment towards Lingard if he were to opt to move to Newcastle this month.

“Even Manchester Utd fans, if he goes and does well for Newcastle, they will be so pleased for him.

“A lot of them are disappointed that he’s come back to United just to sit on the bench and are questioning him as a footballer.

“He’s a Mancunian but they just want him to want to play football.”