Jesse Lingard set for shock move away from Europe to end his football hiatus

The 31-year-old has been without a club since being allowed to leave by Nottingham Forest last summer after just one season.

Lingard has been linked with switches to Saudi Arabia and Major League Soccer, having trained with Al Ettifaq and Inter Miami.

Everton meanwhile considered the England international as a potential option to boost their relegation fight.

But the ex-Manchester United attacking midfielder is now set to swap Europe for the Far East.

It is believed that a two-year deal is on the table at FC Seoul, with the option of a further year.

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Despite also having interest from Turkey, Lingard views a move to the K League 1 as the one that intrigues him the most.

Lingard will now fly over to South Korea to complete his stunning switch in the coming days.

With the South Korean winter deadline open until March 8, there is no rush for Seoul to wrap up the signing of Lingard.

Though the player will be keen for a pre-season after so many months out, with the South Korean top-flight to commence from March 1.

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Red Devils legend Paul Scholes delivered an X-rated response to Lingard earlier this month in his quest to find a new club.

Taking to Instagram, Lingard posted a series of snaps on social media showing off his training sessions while in Dubai.

But Scholes didn't take too kindly to the images as he issued some strong words to the free agent.

He said: "Are you just gonna f**k about in the gym or are you actually gonna play football?"

Taking his advice on board, Lingard is poised to sign on the dotted line at Seoul to end his football hiatus.