Jesse Lingard looks set to join Corinthians on a one-year deal, with the option to extend for a further season.
Should everything go to plan, the Englishman would become the first modern-era English professional footballer to feature in Brazil’s top flight, a move that would certainly turn heads both in England and in South America.
Reports suggest Lingard will fly from London to Sao Paulo to complete his medical, with some outlets stating that he is scheduled to undergo tests on Sunday after agreeing a pre-contract with the Paulista giants.
If finalised, it would mark one of the most eye-catching transfers in recent Brasileirao history.
Lingard’s South Korea stint
After a successful loan spell with West Ham United and a far tougher period following his permanent move to Nottingham Forest, the Manchester-born midfielder chose a different path in 2024, making the switch to South Korea.
He has just completed a productive two-year stint there, scoring 19 goals in 67 appearances, rediscovering consistency and rhythm in his game.
Over time, he also grew into a leadership role, eventually being named club captain, a sign of the trust placed in him both on and off the pitch.
Lingard’s final appearance for FC Seoul came in the league stage of the AFC Champions League Elite, where he signed off in style by scoring in a 1-1 draw against Melbourne City.
It was a fitting way to potentially close that chapter, contributing on the continental stage and once again showing his ability to step up in big competitions.
A Potential reunion with a former Manchester United teammate
There were rumours circulating last week that Lingard would join newly promoted side Remo. However, Corinthians have now moved quickly to try and secure the Englishman’s signature.
There was also reported interest from several MLS clubs, as well as as many as seven British sides monitoring his situation. Despite that, Lingard appears set on pursuing what can only be described as a genuine footballing challenge in South America.
Corinthians currently sit fourth in the Brasileirao, and manager Dorival Junior has reportedly approved the move, keen to add European creativity and experience into his midfield options.
If completed, the deal would see Lingard reunite with former Manchester United teammate Memphis Depay. The pair played together during the 2015-16 season at Old Trafford.
Memphis is now firmly a key figure for Corinthians, who helped guide them to Copa do Brasil success last season, as well as lifting the Supercopa do Brasil earlier this year.
Corinthians are also competing in the Copa Libertadores, meaning Lingard would likely feature on the continental stage as well if the move is completed.
Brazilian football will not be an easy adjustment. The travel demands are relentless, the intensity is high, and the varying weather conditions across the country can make fixtures physically draining.
How Lingard has managed his fitness since leaving Seoul in December will be tested early on, especially if he is thrown straight into league and Libertadores action.
However, once he settles into the rhythm of Brazilian football, he has the profile to become a key asset. His movement between the lines, ability to link play and inject energy into midfield, could add a different dynamic to this Corinthians side as they push on domestically and in South America.