Jesse Lingard wage demands for Saudi Pro League transfer are 'too pricy' as full details emerge

Jesse Lingard’s potential move to the Saudi Professional League could be in doubt due to his wage demands.

Lingard is currently a free agent after his one-year deal with Nottingham Forest came to an end on the back of the 22/23 season.

Since then, he had spent time training with former club West Ham United.

Despite impressing manager David Moyes, it was reported by The Athletic that the Hammers have ended their interest in signing the 30-year-old.

Last week, Lingard began training with Saudi Arabian side Al Ettifaq, who are managed by former Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard.

It is believed that Gerrard would like to sign Lingard but there is a potential stumbling block.

According to talkSPORT, Lingard would like to earn around £7 million per year, which is much more than Al Ettifaq’s budget, which is believed to be closer to £4.35 million.

Speaking about Lingard, Moyes said: “No disappointment at all (that Lingard is training with Al-Ettifaq).

“I'm quite comfortable and more than relaxed with it. We like Jesse a lot but I just don't know if we need another player in his position.”

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Back in June, Lingard spoke about a potential move to Saudi Arabia.

Speaking to Sky Sports, he said: “I'm considering all options. I've never ruled out any team or club out, so for me it's just picking the right team and it's got to be right for me.

“Saudi Arabia are doing big things, and in the next couple of years or so, it will be one of the hotspots to go to.”

Lingard continued: “I'm not really surprised that the big names are moving out there. Like I say, they're doing big things and it's something I would consider as well – I've not ruled that out either.

“It's got to be right for me at the end of the day. I've got to go on my gut feeling but I'm still hungry and striving for success.”

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