Sevilla boss García Pimienta has confirmed that Nigerian striker Kelechi Iheanacho is free to leave the club, with multiple English teams reportedly keen on signing him,According to PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
Speaking before Sevilla’s recent stalemate against Getafe, Pimienta clarified that there are no obstacles preventing the Super Eagles forward from making an exit.
“Kelechi Iheanacho has a lot of offers and absolute freedom to decide where he wants to go. It will come together anyway, as soon as there is an offer that satisfies all parties,” Pimienta said.
The 28-year-old moved to Sevilla on a free transfer last summer following the expiration of his contract with Leicester City. However, he has struggled to make an impact in Spain, failing to score in La Liga and featuring in only nine league matches, accumulating 401 minutes from a possible 1,800.
Although he has managed to score three goals in two Copa del Rey appearances, his efforts were not enough to prevent Sevilla from being knocked out by Almeria in the round of 32.
His role at the club has further diminished in recent weeks, as he was left out of the squad for their last two league games against Girona and Valencia. Additionally, he remained an unused substitute during the team’s 4-2 loss to Real Madrid.
Former Super Eagles coach Finidi George has expressed his dissatisfaction with how Sevilla has treated Iheanacho, advising him to consider leaving the club.
“I think they have disrespected him in many ways,” Finidi told Africa Foot.
“They expected a lot from him when he arrived, but it’s still early days, and he hasn’t been given enough time to settle in. In my opinion, he should leave the club if any good offers come along.”
Sevilla’s recent acquisitions, including Akor Adams and former Manchester United winger Antony, have further limited Iheanacho’s chances in the squad. Pimienta has shifted focus to integrating Adams into the team.
“I have to adapt to the virtues of the staff. If we can be more effective with two specific fronts, we will. Akor Adams has to understand the way he trains and play, he’s probably going to do it,” Pimienta added.
Reports indicate that Premier League sides West Ham and Watford are interested in signing Iheanacho. The Nigerian forward was instrumental in Leicester City’s promotion campaign last season, scoring six goals and providing three assists in 26 appearances.
A return to England could offer Iheanacho a fresh start, with Finidi endorsing a move back to the Premier League as “a great option” for the ex-Manchester City striker.
Sevilla currently occupies 11th place in La Liga, trailing the UEFA Europa Conference League spots by four points. Meanwhile, Iheanacho’s compatriot Chidera Ejuke, who also joined the club on a free transfer last summer, has established himself as a key player.
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