Jesse Lingard is in advanced talks over a sensational move which would see him reunite with a former Manchester United teammate, reports claim.
Lingard has been without a club since December when he departed South Korean side FC Seoul after two seasons and 19 goals and 67 appearances.
The 33-year-old put out a statement confirming that he and FC Seoul "mutually agreed" his exit after they tried to tie him down to a contract extension but that his stint in Asian was "an unforgettable experience and one I will always value".
Lingard has been linked with a number of clubs since his departure, with a total of seven clubs reportedly rejecting the ex England midfielder - including West Ham, Burnley and both Celtic and Rangers.
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He also held discussions with Brazilian side Rema after their promotion to Campeonato Brasileiro Serie A and has interest from MLS clubs.
But now Lingard appears to be closing in on a huge switch to Corinthians, one of the biggest clubs in Brazil.
Both ESPN Brasil and Globo say negotiations are at an advanced stage for Lingard to sign a one-year contract. Lingard's talks with Rema did not progress and opened the door for Corinthians, with the club's board poised to meet with manager Dorival Junior and his coaching staff in the coming hours to inform them about the status of the deal.
Lingard looks set to reunite with ex teammate Memphis Depay, with the two playing 31 times alongside one another in the 2015/16 campaign at United.
The Netherlands international joined the Sao Paulo giants in 2024, signing a two-year contract after leaving Atletico Madrid.
Depay has scored 19 goals in 73 appearances for Corinthians, including the winner in the Copa do Brasil final against Vasco da Gama.
The triumph, coupled with the Campeonato Paulista victory, saw Corinthians secure qualification for the Copa Libertadores.
Former Arsenal defender Gabriel Paulista and ex Watford winger Andre Carillo will be Lingard's teammates at Corinthians.
Corinthians are currently third in the Campeonato Brasileiro Serie A, having taken seven points from four games.
Topics: Jesse Lingard, Manchester United, Premier League
Josh Lawless