According to Nigerianwatch, Saudi Arabian champions Al Hilal are unwilling to extend Odion Ighalo’s contract as they look to sign former Manchester United forward Cristiano Ronaldo in January.

Ighalo joined Al Hilal from rivals Al Shabab in January for a fee of around €2.9 million, and his contract with the club expires on June 30, 2023.

According to Sky Sports, Al Hilal are preparing to make Ronaldo the first mega offer just a week after he became a free agent.

Ronaldo left Manchester United after launching a scathing attack on the club, manager Erik Ten Haag, and some of the club’s players in an explosive interview with journalist Piers Morgan.

Al Hilal are huge Ronaldo fans, and reports suggest that the Saudi Arabian giants made a bid for the former Real Madrid star’s signature during the summer transfer window. On the other hand, Manchester United turned down their multi-million euro offer, which could change now that Ronaldo is free to negotiate his transfer.

“He is one player Al Hilal is interested in signing, but that depends on some departures,” Sky Sports reported.

According to the Spanish newspaper Marca, Ronaldo has agreed to a two-and-a-half year contract extension with Al Nassr worth an eye-watering £172.9 million per year, which will keep him playing until age 40.

If Ighalo decides to stay at Al Hilal despite Ronaldo’s arrival, the Nigerian will face off against the Portuguese superstar.

Last year’s final day of the season, the Nigerian striker scored the goals that propelled the team to the Saudi Premier League title.