7th January, 2016
Watford striker Odion Ighalo says he would only leave Vicarage Road if Manchester United came calling.
The 26-year-old has been one of the standout performers this season, netting 14 Premier League goals in 20 appearances, a tally on surpassed by Everton’s Romelu Lukaku and Leicester’s Jamie Vardy (both 15).
His form has attracted interest from some of Europe’s elite clubs, including Atletico Madrid and Roma, but Ighalo has ruled out a move to anywhere other than Old Trafford.
The Nigeria international told The Sun: ‘I don’t think I will be moving but I’m not sure I could say no if United called.’
He went on to explain: “They were my team growing up. I loved watching Andy Cole and Dwight Yorke.
“They were my idols and playing at Old Trafford has always been a dream.”
Watford, who were promoted from the Championship in May, have been exceeding expectations this term.
Despite being widely tipped as relegation candidates, Quique Sanchez Flores’ men find themselves sitting comfortably ninth in the table with 29 points, 12 clear of the drop zone.
The Red Devils, meanwhile, by their own high standards at least, are struggling.
United are fifth in the table and their performances, particularly relating to their lack of cutting edge in front of goal, have led to criticism for manager Louis van Gaal.
United have failed to score seven times in the league this season while also recently experiencing a six-game winless run.
They have also exited the Champions League at the group-stage and Van Gaal’s future has been cast into doubt.
Ighalo signed for Watford from Serie A side Udinese in 2014, initially on loan, before making the switch permanent within three months.