Jesse Lingard (34) is once again facing a new challenge. This time he is increasingly likely to play in Italy for the first time in his career. It could be just before he proves the reason he joined the K League two years ago.
The British Daily Mail reported on the 29th (Korea time) that the free agent (FA) Lingard is considering offers from clubs in England and Italy. He is close to deciding his future, the report said.
The outlet explained that the FA Lingard has recently been in talks with several English clubs, including Premier League teams. But according to what it learned, the Manchester United and England international has made progress in talks with Serie A clubs.
Lingard is finally close to the European return he had targeted. The Daily Mail added that Lingard had been open to offers from several clubs since terminating his contract with FC Seoul in December last year. He recorded 67 official appearances and 19 goals for Seoul, but now appears to be preparing for a return to Europe.
Lingard is looking for his next destination after parting ways with Seoul. A Manchester United youth product, he was once a regular star player for Manchester United and the England national team. His Manchester United totals are 232 appearances, 35 goals and 21 assists.
However, Lingard moved to Nottingham Forest for more playing time and, after a disappointing spell of 20 appearances, 2 goals and 2 assists, left early. After spending half a year as a free agent, he surprised everyone by signing with Seoul in 2024, accepting Seoul's offer that had been genuine to him during a difficult time.
There was initially skepticism about Lingard's surprise move to the K League. But he settled in well at Seoul and in his debut season recorded 26 appearances, 6 goals and 3 assists. Above all, Lingard won many fans with his outstanding skill and exemplary attitude. In the 2025 season he even wore the captain's armband and led the team, recording 34 league appearances, 10 goals and 4 assists and achieving double-digit league goals in a single season for the first time in his career.
Naturally Seoul wanted to continue with Lingard. But Lingard wanted to leave Korea for a new challenge, and Seoul respected his wishes and decided not to hold him back. In the end Lingard tearfully bid farewell to Seoul fans after the Melbourne match. Recently he was also named Seoul's player of the year for 2025.
Lingard returned to his native England after leaving a record of 76 official appearances, 18 goals and 10 assists. Earlier this month he told Sky Sports why he left Korean football: the dream of returning to the England national team.
Lingard said, "The England national team has always been in my heart. When I was playing in Korea I didn't think I would be immediately called up. I know I have to play regularly in the Premier League and perform well." He added, "The national team is always in my heart. Also, coach Tuchel has recently been using more experienced, older players. So I always think there's a chance."
He also said, "I always like playing for my country. I think that's the most important thing. You're playing for the national team, aren't you? You'll remember the 2018 World Cup. It was a really wonderful time. Wearing that jersey is an incredible blessing," and emphasized, "So I never rule out the possibility."
But Lingard did not quickly find a new team. He tried to return to Premier League West Ham United, where he had excelled on loan, but that was blocked by coach Nuno Espírito Santo. In fact, West Ham later signed winger Adama Traoré instead of Lingard.
Still, Lingard said, "I have all options open. Having been to Korea, living abroad isn't difficult. I can adapt well. I'm ready for a new challenge. I've received offers from several places. I need time to make the best choice," noting that he has several options.
Spain also showed interest in Lingard. According to Marca, Sevilla, Celta Vigo and Real Oviedo included him on their lists. Celta Vigo, sitting seventh in La Liga and potentially able to qualify for European competition, seemed like a good option.
But at the end of the transfer market the possibility of moving to Serie A is rapidly emerging. One thing is certain: there have been many love calls for Lingard, who had seemed to be lost in the fog. Attention is focused on what kind of performance he, who left Korea with good memories, could show in Italy.<
[Photo] Korea Professional Football League (KPFL), Sky Sports.
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