Odion Ighalo's transfer to Manchester United is certainly the most surprising move in the January window. Even with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side in desperate need of some reinforcements up front, it was a massive shock to see them plump for the former Watford striker.
The Nigerian international was last seen in the Premier League in the 16/17 season, scoring one goal in 18 league appearances for The Hornets.
He has been playing well in China, but this certainly has a hint of desperation about it. United reportedly failed in moves for the likes of Danny Ings and Joshua King late in the window.
Even Ighalo's agent was surprised by the transfer. Atta Aneke knew of interest from the English club, but there was no movement on a potential transfer as late as Thursday. The deal would be done by Friday night:
I talked to Manchester United's top boss (Ed Woodward). It was quiet on Thursday, and then I got the impression that nothing would happen.
Suddenly, in the middle of the day on Friday, things started to move. It was then at 11pm in the evening in Shanghai.
It was hectic phone business. Everyone had to stay awake until six o'clock in the morning in Shanghai.
Despite the shock, he admitted that this was a dream move for Ighalo, who supported Manchester United as a child.
He has been a United supporter since childhood. It's incredibly big. When he left for China, he did not expect to be brought to United as a 30-year-old.
He's an amazing person. If you see what he's doing off the field. He has opened an orphanage with 20-30 kids, who are now also allowed to go to school.
Every month he sends money to widows from the area he is from in Nigeria. It is a person who is successful.
He is not one of those who thinks of himself.
