Nigerian international, Odion Ighalo, has turned down a £10 million move to Chinese first division side, Hebei China Fortune, The Eagle Online can report.
Hebei, who are managed by former Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid and Barcelona head coach, Raddy Antic, had targeted Ighalo as they look to make a marquee signing to boost their profile.
However, after holding talks with Watford, Ighalo has decided to turn the offer as he wants to play in the Premier League with the newly promoted Hornets.
Ighalo was instrumental in helping Watford win promotion last season with 20 goals in 38 games, including a memorable four-goal haul in a 7-2 win over Blackpool.
Ighalo’s agent, Ladi Salami, has admitted the former Udinese forward is pleased by the interest from China, but said the forward plans to stay in England and that two other Premier League clubs are chasing him this summer.
Odion Ighalo scored 20 league goals last season to help Watford win automatic promotion from the Championship.
“Odion is flattered by the offer from China, but he wants to stay in England and play in the Premier League,” Salami said.
“The offer was very lucrative, but it is not all about money and Odion has always wanted to play in the Premier League.
“I have also received interest from two other Premier League clubs, but Watford will decide Odion’s future and right now he is just focused on getting ready for the new season.”
Ighalo is set to once again line up with last season’s top scorer Troy Deeney, who signed a new contract at the club last week.
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