Jesse Lingard has become a free agent after being released by Nottingham Forest. The former Manchester United midfielder signed a one-year deal with the club last summer, despite rumors of a return to West Ham where he had previously played on loan. However, Lingard’s time at Forest was not successful, as he only made 20 appearances for the club and managed just two goals and two assists. As a result, Forest has decided not to renew his contract, and Lingard is now free to find a new club.
The Premier League has also confirmed its retained list, which includes Lingard among the players set to leave at the end of the current season. The statement read, “Six senior players’ contracts have come to an end: Andre Ayew, Cafu, Jack Colback, Jesse Lingard, Jordan Smith, and Lyle Taylor. Six academy players will also depart the club as they embark on fresh chapters ahead of the 2023/24 season.”
Forest thanked each player for their contributions during their time at The City Ground and announced that Serge Aurier has triggered an automatic one-year extension to his contract. Meanwhile, Keylor Navas, Dean Henderson, and Renan Lodi have returned to their parent clubs after their loan spells with Forest. Chris Wood’s loan deal from Newcastle United will become permanent from the summer transfer window open date.
Overall, Lingard’s departure from Forest marks the end of a disappointing season for the midfielder. However, with his talent and experience, he is sure to attract interest from other clubs looking to bolster their squads for the upcoming season.