Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is still hopeful that Manchester United can seal a deal with Shanghai Shenhua as discussions to extend Odion Ighalo’s loan nose dive, reports independent.ie.
Several opinions were raised when the former Watford striker made his deadline day switch from the Chinese Super League side in January, however, the 30-year-old was quick to impress the faithfuls at Old Trafford.
Ighalo assisted in easing the attacking burden, with Marcus Rashford sidelined by a back injury. He also went on to chip four goals in three starts.
The coronavirus outbreak in China meant Shanghai Shenhua had been open to accommodating that loan deal, but the pandemic’s subsequent impact in England means play will now go on beyond the loan’s May 31 expiration date.
Ighalo’s parent club have been hesitant in extending the loan as the Chinese season edges closer to restarting, but Solskjaer has not given up hope on a deal being struck.
“The loan deal went to the end of May now, so obviously he’s supposed to be going back,” the United boss said.
“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.
“But at the moment nothing’s been agreed yet. Their league is going to start soon so we are just waiting to see.”
The transfer market is shaping up to be one, long waiting game this summer gave the unknown impact of COVID-19 on football and its finances.
When asked about transfers, Solskjaer told MUTV: “Of course we’re always looking.