Shenhua Moves To Replace Ighalo With Martins

Ex-Eagles striker, Obafemi Martins, may return for another spell at Chinese side, Shanghai Shenhua, as they prepare for life after Odion Ighalo.

The former Watford striker, currently on a six-month loan at Manchester United, looks set to have his deal made permanent as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer seems happy to meet Shanghai Shenhua’s £15m price tag.

Ighalo has done enough to convince United into extending his stay at Old Trafford after bagging four goals in eight appearances for the team.

Martins was reported by Titan Sports to have arrived in China on Tuesday and was being lined up to replace Ighalo ahead of the Chinese Super League season.

China’s domestic league has yet to start the 2020 season after kick off was delayed indefinitely due to the coronavirus outbreak but speculation is mounting that the campaign will begin in late April or early May.

England’s Premier League has been suspended due to the pandemic and will not resume before April 30.

And according to Sky Sports and Shields Gazette, Shenhua have identified former Inter and Newcastle striker, Martins, as his replacement.

The 35-year-old’s return will be his second spell after initially turning out for the club from 2016 to 2018.

Martins is currently without a club since leaving the Hongkou Football stadium outfit in 2018.

Credit: punchng.com