Jesse Lingard primed for European return as record-breaking side makes “formal contact” to sign him

Jesse Lingard is in line for a shock return to European football with three clubs in La Liga eyeing the former Manchester United star on a free transfer, according to a report from Spain. Leaving South Korea Lingard will test the free agency market after mutually agreeing to terminate his contract with FC Seoul. The 33-year-old midfielder joined the club — who play in the K-League, South Korea’s top division — in February 2024, signing a two-year deal and becoming captain. He played 66 times for the Dark Red Warriors, returning 18 goals and 10 assists. Jesse Lingard career stats ClubAppearancesGoalsAssistsYears Man United23235212011-2022 Leicester City (loan)5002012-2013 Birmingham City (loan)13632013-2014 Brighton (loan)17432014 Derby County (loan)15212015 West Ham (loan)16952021 Nottingham Forest20222022-2023 FC Seoul6618102024-2025 Lingard revealed it was a difficult decision to leave but described his time in the South Korean capital as an “unforgettable experience”. The Carrington graduate, who scored the winning goal in United’s FA Cup triumph in 2016, was immediately linked with a return to England, having previously enjoyed spells with West Ham and Nottingham Forest. Two Premier League clubs were credited with interest in Lingard, as detailed as by The Peoples Person here, but their identities remain unconfirmed. But Fichajes reveals there are three sides in Spain also in the hunt for the Englishman, who can sign as a free agent on January 1. A Move to Spain The Spanish outlet contends Celta Vigo, Real Oviedo and Sevilla are angling to sign Lingard with “formal contact” already made with his representatives. The report indicates the player himself is prioritising a move to La Liga as it “fits his profile” at this stage of his career. For Celta Vigo, Lingard’s ability to “play between the lines” would be a huge boost, while Sevilla — who have won the Europa League the most times in history — appreciate his “media presence” as an off-the-field asset, an attribute Fichajes claim Los Rojiblancos prioritise. Real Oviedo also consider the midfielder a “big name” who can offer leadership and play a “central role” in their side, despite the potential financial difficulties his signing may incur. Fichajes conclude that Lingard’s future is “expected to be resolved” imminently  with Spain “emerging as an increasingly likely destination” for a player whose footballing career in Europe appeared to have ended a few years ago. The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Darragh Darragh is an editor for The Peoples Person who spent three years learning about the Cold War at the University of Sheffield slowly realising football was by far the most interesting thing to write about. Amad’s first touch should be officially recognised as the eighth wonder of the world.