Simon: Ighalo deserves permanent Man United deal

Moses Simon of Nigeria challenged by Ernest Seka Boka (l) and Naby Deco Keita of Guinea during the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations

by Graeme Jackson

Thursday May 28, 2020. 16:00

Nigerian international Moses Simon says compatriot Odion Ighalo deserves a permanent deal at Premier League giants Manchester United.

Veteran striker Ighalo joined the Red Devils on loan from Chinese club Shanghai Shenhua in January 2020 and made a strong impact, with four goals in eight appearances before the season was halted due to the coronavirus pandemic.

With the Premier League looking likely to resume in the second half of June, United are hopeful of keeping Igahlo on their books even though Shenhua would like him back in China ahead of the start of the new Super League season.

Speaking in an interview with Tribalfootball, Nantes loanee Simon said that a permanent move to Old Trafford would be good for both Igahlo and Nigerian football as a whole.

“If the Manchester United deal can be sealed permanently, not just a loan deal, I think it will be good for his football, his family and for Nigeria football,” the Levante-owned midfielder said.

“Odion Ighalo has proved to be a good striker in Man United in the few games he played.

“It will be good for Nigeria football to see Ighalo succeed at Old Trafford. He has shown good qualities of succeeding already.”