Man Utd facing transfer fight to keep Odion Ighalo as PSG ‘make contact over signing striker to replace Cavani’
MANCHESTER UNITED could face a transfer fight to keep hold of Odion Ighalo after Paris Saint-Germain reportedly made contact over signing the striker.
Ighalo, 31, is currently on loan at Old Trafford from Chinese Super League side Shanghai Shenhua.
But with his temporary deal expiring at the end of January, PSG are thought to be considering making a move.
Although it is unclear at this stage whether United will want to sign the Nigerian again.
According to Foot Mercato, the Ligue 1 side have already been in touch with Ighalo’s representatives to discuss a move.
PSG’s sporting director Leonardo is keen to bring in another striker as soon as possible.
Edinson Cavani left for nothing when his contract expired in June.
Although Mauro Icardi made his switch from Inter Milan permanent until 2024 and Arnaud Kalimuendo is breaking into the first team, the club are still drawing up a shortlist.
And it is understood Ighalo is on there.
With his contract in China expiring at the end of next year, he could be available for a relatively low transfer fee – although his mammoth wages could prove a sticking point.
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Ighalo has shown glimpses of quality during his limited time in the Manchester United team since arriving in January.
He scored in each of his first four starts with five goals spread across the Europa League and FA Cup.
But he was unable to earn a start or score in the Premier League due to the excellent form of Anthony Martial, Marcus Rashford and Mason Greenwood once the season restarted.
As revealed by SunSport, PSG are also lining up Joshua King as an alternative.
The Bournemouth striker – who would cost around £25m – is also wanted by ten Premier League clubs as well as four in Italy – including Rome rivals Lazio and Roma.
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King was close to a move to Manchester United in January but a £20m bid was rejected and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer snapped up Ighalo instead.
Reports in France also suggested PSG could pursue a sensational transfer for Cristiano Ronaldo.
Leonardo is due to meet with Ronaldo’s agent Jorge Mendes in Lisbon during the Champions League finale.
