Odion Ighalo to Old Trafford to become a permanent deal soon

Manchester United are ready to sign their on-loan striker and long-time United fan, Odion Ighalo, permanently once his loan deal expires this summer. 

The 30-year-old joined late in the January window as an emergency backup for the united number nine, Anthony Martial.

Ighalo has bagged four goals in eight games and has impressed everyone with his mentality towards the club. 

As per the Daily Mail, Ighalo’s deal ends on May 31, one month earlier than most other temporary deals and there is no option to extend that as Shanghai Shenhua initially wanted him back for the start of the Chinese Super League season.

Negotiations have already begun but as reported, United are ready to strike a permanent £15m deal for the Nigerian international. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer already mentioned the player in his interviews and the words have always been in favor of the striker. 

The deal is seen as a surprise as no one expected that there was any chance or it would happen for real. Ighalo has also given some relief to the young Mason Greenwood, who was beginning to show a dip in his form but now the “modern-era Robin Van Persie” has gained confidence and is doing well without much stress.

The Nigerian has also made Martial work harder because of his will to represent the club and do whatever it takes to take the club where it actually belongs. Since Ighalo’s arrival, Martial has been in staggering form; scoring, assisting and giving everything on the pitch. 

Ighalo’s presence also gives Anthony Martial and Mason Greenwood all the rest they need to get back strong as Ighalo plays the vast majority of minutes in Cup competitions, Europa League and also becomes available as a very reliable option during the dying minutes in the Premier League.

The player’s ball holding capabilities and passing along with link-up plays have been commendable and he has adapted himself to the ‘United way’ very well.

featured image credits- bleacherreport.com