Nice 'join the race to sign out-of-favour Manchester United playmaker Jesse Lingard'... but 'Newcastle are still trying to convince Red Devils to sell 29-year-old this month'

• Jesse Lingard's contract at Manchester United expires in the summer 
• The 29-year-old is struggling for game-time under Ralf Rangnick at Old Trafford
• The England international has been linked with a move to Newcastle United
• But latest reports state Ligue 1 side Nice are also interested in Lingard  

Ligue 1 side Nice are reportedly interested in signing Jesse Lingard and have entered the race for the Manchester United playmaker. 

The 29-year-old, who flourished on loan at West Ham in the second-half of last season, has again struggled for game-time at Old Trafford this season. 

His contract at the Red Devils expires at the end of the season and with an extension unlikely, United could sell this month to avoid losing Lingard on a free this summer. 

Now, French outlet Foot Mercato report that Nice - currently second in the French first division - are interested in bringing Lingard to Ligue 1. 

The report details that there is competition between several clubs for Lingard's signature, including West Ham and Newcastle. 

Nice boss Christophe Galtier approached Lingard about a move a year ago before he joined David Moyes' Hammers. 

Recent reports state Newcastle have returned with a second loan offer for Manchester United's Lingard. 

While Lingard is keen on a move to St James' Park, he would only consider joining on loan. 

That means Newcastle will almost certainly have to pay a sizeable loan fee to satisfy both United and the England forward, who wants to keep his options open. 

Lingard has not started in the Premier League this season and is desperate for first-team football in a World Cup year.