Manchester United are reportedly close to agreeing a loan extension for Odion Ighalo. The Nigerian’s loan was due to expire today, however, now looks set to be extended until January 2021. According to Sky Sports, talks are at an advanced stage and a deal could be reached today.
Manchester United Close To Agreeing Odion Ighalo Loan Extension
Odion Ighalo – Cult Hero
Ighalo joined Manchester United from Shanghai Shenhua on deadline day in January 2020. The media responded negatively and labelled the signing a panic buy. However, Ighalo made a positive impression in his eight appearances. He contributed four goals in this time and alleviated the pressure on Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial.
The self-confessed United fan sparked a harmonious relationship with the fans from the beginning. Fans saw the passion and excitement of Ighalo after the move and supported the new man.
Ighalo’s agent warned his client that he would need to take a pay cut to join United. To that, Ighalo replied: “I don’t care. Make this deal happen. I want to go to United. I don’t care how much is the pay cut, I know that, make it happen.’”
His debut came as a late substitute away at Chelsea, where he very nearly scored. His first goal did arrive in a Europa League tie against Club Brugge. After the goal, Ighalo was quick to dedicate it to his late sister: “I promise myself that every goal I score I will dedicate to her. She is up there watching me and doing well for United.”
A brace against Derby County followed in a game where Ighalo confirmed his position as a competent Manchester United back-up player. He was impressing fans and his coaches alike.
Loan Extension
Before the suspension of football, Ighalo was instrumental as United beat LASK in the Europa League. With the top four and Europa League triumph still up for grabs, United would love to have the Nigerian to call upon.
The talks are developing well and it is widely expected that Ighalo will remain at Manchester United until January 2021.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer answered a question about Ighalo’s future last week. He responded: “They’ve been great towards us, his club, allowing him to play. It’s been a dream for him. Hopefully, he can finish off what he started, maybe with a trophy or two.”
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