Ex-Man Utd forward Odion Ighalo backed for shock Chelsea transfer ahead of Club World Cup encounter
The Nigerian spent two seasons in the Premier League with Watford and Manchester United, and he was previously linked with a move to Chelsea.
The current European champions face the Saudi team on Wednesday afternoon in the hopes of advancing to the final.
The Blues will be hungry for victory as they look to add to the two trophies they’ve already won under Thomas Tuchel’s watchful eye – despite the fact that the German isn’t in Abu Dhabi because he tested positive for Covid-19.
Former Manchester United forward Odion Ighalo, who recently completed a move to Al Hilal from Al Shabab, will be eager to have a say in the game.
He scored on his debut against Al-Jazira and will be looking to build on that performance against the Blues.
In an intriguing twist, Ighalo was once backed by agent and ex-Nigeria international Abdul Sule to represent the Blues following his loan spell with the Red Devils.
Speaking to GOAL in 2020, he said: “I see Odion Ighalo earning a big-money move from top European teams when his loan expires at Manchester United.
“I don’t think Man United are keen on retaining him because they seem not to value him enough to hand him a regular place. He also may not be wanted again when Marcus Rashford is fit.
“I will not advise him to return to China now despite the attractive offer but would urge him to stay in Europe. I won’t be surprised if Chelsea, Manchester City, Real Madrid or Barcelona come for him.
“He has proven that he’s got a lot to offer at the highest level within his short stay at Man United and he can attract big brands and earn more money, playing in any of the top teams in England.
“He can always still return to China later in his career but right now, I think he has what it takes to shine in Europe.”
Ighalo, now 32, spent 23 games on loan at Manchester United from Chinese club Shanghai Shenua. During that time, he scored five goals.
He has since scored 23 goals in 33 appearances for both Al Shabab and Al Hilal.
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Ex-Man Utd forward Odion Ighalo backed for shock Chelsea transfer ahead of Club World Cup encounter
