Since arriving from Chinese side Shanghai Greenland Shenhua in January, Odion Ighalo has performed admirably while on loan at Manchester United.
Should Manchester United Keep Hold of Odion Ighalo?
Success so Far
The Nigerian arrived at Old Trafford on the last day of the mid-season transfer window, as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer looked to bolster his attacking options in a push for Champions League football.
The temporary deal has proved to be a successful one as well. He has bagged himself four goals in just eight appearances this season.
Due to his impressive performances, United’s number 25 has quickly become a fan favourite at his boyhood club. He has hinted that he wants to stay put in Manchester.
Match Made in Heaven?
Despite an underwhelming end to his previous Premier League stint with Watford, Ighalo has been back amongst the goals in England.
The 30-year-old grabbed a brace in a FA Cup fifth round tie away to Derby County, and produced a wonderful strike in United’s 5-0 Europa League thrashing over LASK.
There is no doubt that he is enjoying life under Ole. The fans have already expressed their delight with the striker’s displays over recent months. However, has he done enough to convince the United hierarchy to make the deal permanent?
Stumbling Blocks
The Nigerian has already stated that he took a pay-cut from his £190,000-a-week wages to secure the move in January, but even with the reduction in earnings, the forward still nets a hefty amount in Manchester.
Doubts remain whether United will be willing to continue paying such amounts for the Nigerian, especially since other high-profiles names have been touted with a move to the Premier League giants.
With potential moves being lined up for the likes of Jadon Sancho, Jack Grealish and Erling Braut Haaland, officials at the club may wish to spend the big bucks on a bigger name than Ighalo.
Furthermore, Sky Sports reported that Ighalo’s parent club Shanghai Shenhua has offered the player a whopping £400,000-a-week salary, in order to scupper any permanent move to England.
Busy Summer Ahead
It is still unclear where Ighalo will be plying his trade in September, and even with the extortionate wages on the table in China, the forward will be holding out for a permanent switch to Old Trafford.
While United fans may differ in their opinions on the prospect of a full-time transfer, there will no doubt be fond memories for both the player and supporters to look back on.
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