Shanghai Shenhua have softened their stance over Odion Ighalo's situation at Manchester United.

ESPN says United's hopes of signing Ighalo, or at least extending his stay at Old Trafford, have been boosted after Shanghai Shenhua changed their transfer stance.

The Chinese Super League outfit are ready to discuss a loan extension - having initially insisted on a permanent £20m switch.

That will be music to the ears of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who has publicly expressed his wish to keep the 30-year-old at Old Trafford to at least see out the season and win some silverware.

A new contract from Shenhua is also on the table for Ighalo to sign.