The Nigerian forward will continue at Old Trafford for another seven months after a breakthrough in talks between the player, Shanghai Shenhua, and United, the Red Devils have announced.
The Chinese side allowed Odion Ighalo to extend his loan deal with Manchester Utd until the end of January 2021.
Ighalo’s initial loan deal expired at the end of May, and it was believed that Shanghai wanted the Nigerian back for the start of Chinese Super League season.
But due to the coronavirus outbreak that has affected the 2019/2020 season, United want Ighalo to stay for an extended period.
Although it was reported that Shanghai would not agree to another loan deal, the Chinese side softened their stance after it was clear Ighalo won’t make it back on time for the new Chinese Super League season.
United have now announced that there’s been a breakthrough in negotiations and Ighalo will stay at the club till January 2021.
Official announcement on @IghaloJude 🔴#MUFC
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) June 1, 2020
A statement on the club’s website read: Manchester United have reached agreement with Shanghai Greenland Shenhua to extend the loan deal for Odion Ighalo.
The Nigerian striker’s stay was initially due to end on 31 May but he will now remain with the Reds until 31 January 2021, enabling him to build on an impressive start to life with the club he supported as a boy.
Ighalo’s tally of four goals in eight appearances so far includes at least one strike in each of his three starts – against Club Brugge, Derby County (2) and LASK.
Today’s confirmation is a timely boost for United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, as he continues to prepare his squad for this month’s resumption of competitive football.
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