Odion Ighalo's hopes of extending his stay at Manchester United could hinge on the Chinese Super League’s restart date.
The Nigerian’s loan was due to end today, with Ighalo expected back at Shanghai Shenhua ahead of their proposed return to action in late June or early July.
But the resumption of the Chinese season could now be delayed slightly and United officials are hopeful that will give them more time to reach an agreement for the player to see out the Premier League season with them.
The two clubs have now spoken about Ighalo’s situation and it is hoped an agreement will be reached early this week.
The former Watford striker scored four goals in eight games following his surprise move back to England at the end of January and his contribution has already made him a hit with United supporters.
Shenhua have reportedly offered Ighalo a contract extension until 2024, worth a staggering £400,000 a week, but it is known that his preference is to stay with United, especially given how much of a hit he has been at the club up until now.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has spoken of his determination to hang on to the 30-year-old at least until the end of the season and Ighalo himself is desperate to see the end of the Premier League campaign through with the team he supported as a boy.
With Marcus Rashford now fit again, United are perhaps not quite as reliant on Ighalo as they were in February and March, but Solskjaer would no doubt appreciate having him as an option, especially if the Europa League and FA Cup resume as well as the Premier League.
The Chinese Super League was due to kick off in February and end in October but was delayed following the outbreak of coronavirus.
