Jesse Lingard
Brazilian giants Corinthians Paulista have completed the signing of former Manchester United midfielder, Jesse Lingard on a free transfer following his departure from FC Seoul.
Jesse Lingard has agreed a deal that runs until the end of the year, with an option to extend it until the end of 2027 if performance targets are met.
Lingard’s arrival will be marked with a long-standing Corinthians tradition. Each time the club unveil a major signing, a siren rings out at their social club headquarters in Parque Sao Jorge. The custom dates back to the 1960s and has accompanied the unveiling of club icons including Sócrates, Rivaldo, Carlos Tevez, Ronaldo Nazário and, more recently, Memphis Depay.
The siren is expected to sound again in eastern São Paulo as Jesse Lingard is formally unveiled.
The 33-year-old had interest from several clubs but quickly settled on a move to Brazil after speaking with former United team-mate Depay, who joined Corinthians earlier. Lingard booked his flight soon after the conversation, even before a verbal agreement had been finalised.
His move also carries historical significance. Lingard is set to become the first English footballer to play in Brazil’s top flight.
He now steps into one of the most passionate football environments in the country. Corinthians supporters proudly refer to themselves as “bando de loucos”, meaning “a bunch of crazies”, a nickname embraced by the club’s vast following.
The club’s fan base has long been regarded as one of the most devoted in Brazilian football. Around 40,000 supporters travelled from Brazil to witness Corinthians defeat Chelsea F.C. 1-0 in the 2012 FIFA Club World Cup Final in Japan.
Supporters have also contributed millions through crowdfunding campaigns to help finance the club’s stadium, the Neo Química Arena.
Corinthians’ loyal following remained strong even during a 23-year wait for a major trophy, a drought that ended in 1977 with the São Paulo State Championship.
Lingard has been handed the No. 77 shirt, a number that carries symbolic weight at the club. It serves as a reminder of the year that ended one of the most painful barren spells in Corinthians’ history.