Jesse Lingard joins South Korean side FC Seoul as free agent

Former Manchester United midfielder Jesse Lingard has joined South Korean side FC Seoul after a lengthy spell as a free agent.

Lingard was released by Nottingham Forest in June, when his one-year deal expired. That came as no surprise since he only made 20 appearances in the 2022-season and earned a hefty salary.

In the meantime, Lingard has trained with West Ham, but that was only a temporary agreement because a move never materialised.

The 31-year-old also trained with Saudi Arabia side Al Ettifaq, but like at West Ham, it never turned in to anything more and Lingard is now attempting to rejuvenate his playing career in South Korea.

According to BBC Sport, Lingard has signed a two-year deal with the K-League club, with the option for a further year.

Speaking to club media after his move to FC Seoul, Lingard said (as quoted by The Athletic): “Based on respect for Korean football, I am excited to represent the K-League as soon as possible by playing good football and dedication to my new team, FC Seoul. I am looking forward to meeting coach Kim Gidong and to make an impact in the team.”

The six-time K-League champions will hope that Lingard can bring back previous successes after finishing seventh in the K-League last time out.

Lingard left Old Trafford in 2022 after making 232 appearances for United. We would like to wish him the best in South Korea with FC Seoul.

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