Everton receive big January boost in pursuit of out-of-favour Manchester United and England midfielder

Jesse Lingard is hoping to leave Manchester United in January amid Everton's reported interest.

The England international could become available in just more than a month's time as his Old Trafford deal ticks down.

Background

Lingard returned to the Red Devils in the summer after a highly fruitful spell on loan at West Ham during the second half of last season.

In total, he recorded nine goals and five assists in just 16 games for David Moyes' side.

However, Lingard's fallen back down the pecking order at United. He's totalled only 63 minutes of football in the Premier League this term.

Negotiations break down

The 28-year-old is out of contract in the summer and has been in talks about extending his deal.

However, the BBC reports that negotiations have now broken down.

Lingard is said to see 'little point in seeking further talks' and is hoping to secure another loan move away from Old Trafford in January as he seeks regular football.

Everton's interest

Everton were linked with a move for Lingard in the summer.

And last month, Football Insider reported that Rafa Benitez remains a fan of the former Leicester City loanee and would like to pursue a deal.

Importantly for the Toffees, it's said that Lingard would prefer to remain in the north west, with West Ham and Newcastle also linked.

Where would he fit in?

One thing that Everton currently lack is an out-and-out attacking midfielder.

Benitez has preferred a 4-4-2 formation this season, which was highly beneficial when Abdoulaye Doucoure was fit.

But there is no natural player to fill the number-10 role if the Blues wanted to switch to a 4-2-3-1 system.

That's something Lingard would very much offer.

Everton have also been linked with Man Utd’s Donny van de Beek after he almost signed in the summer.