Ex-Manchester United and current Al Hilal striker Odion Ighalo was once backed for a move to Chelsea amid the Blues’ clash with his current team in the Club World Cup.
The current reigning European champions take on the Saudi outfit on Wednesday afternoon as they aim to progress to the final.
The Blues will certainly be keen to earn victory as they aim to add to the two pieces of silverware already claimed under the watchful eye of Thomas Tuchel - despite the German not actually being present in Abu Dhabi having tested positive for Covid-19.
One man who will be keen to have a say on the game is former Manchester United forward Ighalo - the Nigerian having recently completed a move to Al Hilal from Al Shabab in the January window.
He netted on his debut against Al-Jazira and will certainly be looking to extend that form against the Blues.
However, in an intriguing twist, Ighalo was once backed to represent the Blues following his loan spell with the Red Devils by agent and ex-Nigeria international Abdul Sule.
Speaking to GOAL in 2020, he said: "I see Odion Ighalo earning a big-money move from top European teams when his loan expires at Manchester United.
"I don't think Man United are keen on retaining him because they seem not to value him enough to hand him a regular place. He also may not be wanted again when Marcus Rashford is fit.
"I will not advise him to return to China now despite the attractive offer but would urge him to stay in Europe. I won't be surprised if Chelsea, Manchester City, Real Madrid or Barcelona come for him.
"He has proven that he's got a lot to offer at the highest level within his short stay at Man United and he can attract big brands and earn more money, playing in any of the top teams in England.
"He can always still return to China later in his career but right now, I think he has what it takes to shine in Europe."
Ighalo, now 32, played 23 games for Manchester United during a loan spell from Chinese outfit Shanghai Shenua. In that time, he netted five goals.
Since then, he has scored 23 goals in 33 appearances for both Al Shabab and Al Hilal combined.
