Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says the club would like to keep Odion Ighalo beyond the expiration of his current loan deal.
The Nigerian star joined the Red Devils on loan on deadline day during the winter window and has since settled in very well.
Not only has he become a fan favourite, but the 30-year-old has also contributed four goals in eight appearances for the English giants.
However, Ighalo’s parent club Shanghai Shenhua want him back ahead of the commencement of the Chinese Super League.
And with the striker’s initial deal with Man United set to come to an end next week, it remains to be seen what the future holds.
Solskjaer, however, insists the Old Trafford outfit is in “dialogue” to extend Odion Ighalo’s loan deal.
“The loan deal went to the end of May now, so obviously he’s supposed to be going back," the Norwegian told MUTV.
“We’re in dialogue and hopefully [he can stay]. They’ve been great towards us, his club, and allow him to play for his dream club.
“It’s been a dream for him and hopefully he can finish off what he started, maybe with a trophy or two.”
Meanwhile, Ighalo’s representative, Ladi Salami, says negotiations between Man United and Shanghai Shenhua are going well.
He said the Nigerian forward is enjoying his time in Manchester and looks forward to staying.
“On the one hand, the Super Eagle [Ighalo] feels very good in Manchester," Salami said, as quoted by FootMercato.
“Negotiations with the Chinese are ongoing and are going well.
“On the other hand, in view of the latest regulations in force in [China], it is almost impossible to offer such amounts.”