Nigeria forward Odion Ighalo, 31, is keen on a move to Major League Soccer in the United States. His loan spell at Manchester United from Chinese side Shanghai Shenhua expires at the end of this month.
Ighalo’s loan from Chinese side Shanghai Shenhua is set to end on January 31 after a year at Old Trafford.
The Nigerian is waiting before making a decision on his next move but has said he would “love” the opportunity to play in the U.S.
“Today, I’m in Manchester but at the end of the month I don’t know where I’m going to be,” Ighalo told ESPN. “If it’s possible I’d like to stay here but if not I have to go.
Great to see my big brother @ighalojude! Keep flying the flag for us 🇳🇬😁 pic.twitter.com/xFUXTZID3g
— William Troost-Ekong (M.O.N) (@WTroostEkong) January 10, 2021
“I have options. I wait for my agent. He is doing his job and I’m doing mine. At the end of the month, we have to decide what is best and we’ll take it. If it’s possible I’d like to play in MLS but I have to wait to see if it’s possible.
“The league is doing well and if the opportunity arises then I’d grab it with two hands.”
Ighalo made a key contribution to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s team at the end of last season, scoring five goals in 19 appearances as United reached the semifinals of the FA Cup and Europa League, as well as finishing third in the Premier League to secure a return to the Champions League.
He has found opportunities harder to come by this term but it has not dented his appreciation for the chance to live out his dream.
“I’m a professional, I don’t make trouble and I don’t complain,” he said. “I just go to training and give my best.
“Lately I haven’t been playing much but it’s the coach’s decision. If I’m not in the team and give them 100% support. The team is doing well and that’s the most important thing.”