FORMER Man United star Jesse Lingard is reportedly in advanced talks with clubs in Serie A as he closes in on a return to football.
Former England star Lingard, 33, is without a team since leaving South Korean side FC Seoul in December.
Lingard has been looking for a new club in recent months after his contract ended and a return to England has been a possibility.
According to the Daily Mail, the boyhood United star has been holding discussions with “various” British clubs, including some in the Premier League.
But the report adds that Italy is the most likely destination for Lingard.
It says the ex-West Ham and Nottingham Forest star is holding advanced talks with clubs in the Italian top flight.
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Should he make the move to Serie A, he would join his former England team-mate Jamie Vardy, who plays for Cremonese.
Lingard spent 22 years at United, making 232 appearances and won the FA Cup, Europa League and League Cup.
His time at the club ended on a sour note after his brother Louie Scott branded United “classless” for failing to give him a proper send-off.
Lingard then joined Forest, playing 20 times before making the surprise move to Asia.
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He initially struggled with FC Seoul after being labelled as the “biggest signing” in the history of the K League.
His manager Kim Gi-dong criticised his work rate, saying: “I don’t think a player who doesn’t run for a few minutes is a football player.”
But he turned it around by scoring 18 goals and providing 10 assists in 66 appearances, eventually being given the captain’s armband.
Lingard penned an emotionally statement when he confirmed he would leave the club at the end of last year.
He wrote on social media: “After positive discussions with FC Seoul, we have mutually agreed that I will be leaving the club at the end of the 2025 season, with my final game on December 10th.
“This wasn’t an easy decision. My time in South Korea has been unbelievable — the football, the atmosphere, and the passion around this club have been top-class.
“The love, support and the appreciation you have shown towards me for these last 2 years has been truly amazing.
“Playing football here has been an unforgettable experience and one I will always value.
“I want to thank FC Seoul, my teammates, the staff, and everyone associated at the club for trusting me and welcoming me from day one.
“I’ll always be grateful for the opportunity to play for such a massive club.”
