Tottenham Hotspur could now make a surprise move for Jesse Lingard, according to reports...

What's the word?

The Daily Telegraph believe the free-agent midfielder is being considered by the Spurs hierarchy as they look to improve their homegrown quota heading into the 2022/23 season.

After sealing deals for wing-back Ivan Perisic, midfielder Yves Bissouma and Everton attacker Richarlison, the former Manchester United star is viewed as a central creative option.

Premier League rivals West Ham United remain keen on the 29-year-old, whilst the Toffees have also been linked with interest. Given that he is now out of contract, he would not cost a penny to Lilywhites owners, the ENIC Group.

Homegrown bargain

Spurs boss Antonio Conte isn't afraid to strengthen his squad for the here and now, as seen by Perisic's arrival. Even over in Italy at Inter Milan, the 52-year-old was quick to add some experience, with veteran Ashley Young making the switch from Manchester United in 2020.

Adding Lingard to his current options would certainly be a wise and shrewd move, especially considering their homegrown problems.

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The 32-time England international has racked up 165 appearances in the Premier League and has played a further 43 games across UEFA's top competitions, via Transfermarkt.

Despite a 26.35), a key attribute which will tick a box for Conte.

FBRef also likens his playing style to Arsenal duo Martin Odegaard and Emile Smith Rowe.

Once dubbed "top-class" by former United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and "absolutely phenomenal" by talkSPORT presenter Adrian Durham for his form during a lucrative loan spell at the Hammers towards the end of the 2020/21 campaign, the Englishman could bolster Conte's squad in a key area and, at the same time, fix their homegrown problems.

Signing Lingard, who won't cost anything in terms of a transfer fee, would surely be a very wise decision from sporting director Fabio Paratici this summer.

AND in other news, Spurs agree on personal terms with this 21 y/o gem...