Kelechi Iheanacho Finds Escape from Sevilla Struggles with Middlesbrough Move
Super Eagles striker Kelechi Iheanacho has completed his medical with Championship side Middlesbrough ahead of a loan move until the end of the season, providing him with a fresh opportunity to revive his career after a disappointing stint at Sevilla.
The 28-year-old Nigerian international has agreed to join the 2004 EFL Cup winners, with Michael Carrick’s side securing an option to make the transfer permanent in the summer.
According to Sky Sports, Middlesbrough will cover nearly the entire €2m that Sevilla still owes Iheanacho for the remainder of the season.
Iheanacho’s time in Spain has been underwhelming since his summer switch from Leicester City. The forward failed to register a goal in nine La Liga appearances, with his only goals for Sevilla coming in the Copa del Rey, where he scored three times.
His situation worsened with the arrival of fellow Nigerian striker Akor Adams from Montpellier, further limiting his opportunities at the Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan Stadium. Iheanacho has not featured for Sevilla since the January transfer window opened due to speculation over his future and a minor injury, as the club made it clear that he was not part of their long-term plans.
Despite offers from Greek clubs PAOK and Panathinaikos, as well as Italian side Venezia, Iheanacho opted for a return to English football. A potential move to Scottish champions Celtic, which would have reunited him with former Leicester City manager Brendan Rodgers, also collapsed at the final stage.
Iheanacho now looks forward to a fresh start at the Riverside Stadium, where he hopes to rediscover his form and help Middlesbrough push for Premier League promotion. Carrick’s side currently sits seventh in the Championship with 44 points from 29 matches, just outside the playoff positions.
