Tottenham have had Jesse Lingard on their radar for a while, believes journalist Pete O'Rourke.

The 29-year-old is now a free agent after leaving Manchester United and has been linked with a move to Antonio Conte's side.

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What is the latest news involving Lingard?

According to ESPN, Lingard has been approached by clubs from the MLS, who are now set to meet the player and his representatives.

Prior, The Telegraph reported that Tottenham were considering making a move for Lingard as they look to continue increasing the size of their squad ahead of a return to the Champions League.

The same outlet states that West Ham are also interested in Lingard, with the attacking midfielder enjoying a successful loan spell at the London Stadium during the second half of the 2020/21 season.

That campaign, he scored nine goals in 16 league appearances as the Hammers went on to finish in sixth and claim a spot in the Europa League.

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What has O'Rourke said about Lingard and Tottenham?

O'Rourke thinks Lingard, who has been described as "unique" by Michael Carrick, is a player who Tottenham have been tracking for some time.

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, the journalist said: "It's an interesting link. I think he's been on Tottenham's radar for a while, maybe not the top of it.

"But he's a free agent, Jesse Lingard, probably a player with a point to prove after the way it finished at Manchester United last season when he hardly ever played for them."

Do Tottenham need Lingard?

As a free agent and with the added bonus of being a homegrown player, you can see why Tottenham would go after Lingard. However, the former United man does not seem to be what Conte needs right now.

The north London club have just signed Richarlison to add to an attack that already possessed Harry Kane and Son Heung-min.

They also now have Dejan Kulusevski, who has performed exceptionally well since joining from Juventus back in January.

In 18 top-flight appearances, the Sweden international scored five goals and provided eight assists to help Spurs qualify for the Champions League.

Is Lingard, who has registered 56 times in his senior career, a bad player? No, but Tottenham already have options in the attacking positions, with Lucas Moura another player Conte can call upon.

Therefore, while you would not completely rule it out given his availability and homegrown status, it would be a surprise if Lingard ended up at Hotspur Way this summer.