Deal agreed for Ighalo to join Saudi Arabia’s Al Shabab

SAUDI Arabian club Al-Shabab have reportedly agreed to sign Nigerian striker Odion Ighalo from Shanghai Shenhua.

The former Super Eagles striker ended his one-year loan spell at Manchester United last week and is now said to be close to landing in Saudi Arabia after the two sides reportedly agreed a deal.

The move is subject to Ighalo passing a medical and agreeing personal terms.

Ighalo, 31, was expected to return to China with Shanghai Shenhua but they have given him permission to speak to the Saudi Arabian side, according to Sky Sports.

The transfer window in Saudi Arabia is open until 7 February.

Ighalo, who grew up as a Manchester United fan in Lagos, scored five goals in 23 appearances in all competitions for the Red Devils and made only two starts this season before his departure.

Ighalo confirmed his Old Trafford exit in an emotional farewell message on social media on Tuesday.

He wrote: “It’s so hard to see this dream come to an end. But I give God the glory for helping me fulfil this lifelong dream of putting on a Manchester United shirt as a player and represent this great club.

“To the manager, I say thank you for trusting and believing in me when many did not.”

The club also bade him a fond farewell on their website.