The Nigerian international has been at the center of a transfer battle with Middlesbrough now leading the race ahead of Al Ahly.
Egyptian giants Al Ahly are on the verge of losing their transfer target, Kelechi Iheanacho, to English Championship side Middlesbrough, with the Nigerian forward reportedly close to a return to England, according to the BBC.
The 28-year-old striker, who has struggled to make an impact at Sevilla since joining in the summer, has been the subject of intense transfer speculation throughout January.
While Al Ahly had hoped to bring him to Cairo, Middlesbrough have now entered advanced talks to secure his services on loan until the end of the season.
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Al Ahly, one of Africa’s most successful clubs, were reportedly keen on signing Iheanacho to bolster their attack ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States later this year.
The Egyptian side saw the Nigerian international as a valuable addition, given his experience in top European leagues and his impressive track record for club and country.
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However, the deal now appears unlikely as Middlesbrough push forward with negotiations to bring him back to England.
Iheanacho, who left Leicester City in the summer as a free agent, joined Sevilla in La Liga but has endured a difficult spell. He has failed to score or assist in nine league appearances and has struggled with both form and injuries.
Sevilla, disappointed by his performances, are eager to offload him, and a short-term loan move seemed the most viable option.
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Al Ahly were hoping to capitalize on his availability, offering Iheanacho an opportunity to revive his career in a less demanding league while competing for trophies.
The Cairo-based club had been monitoring his situation closely and reportedly initiated talks with Sevilla to strike a deal.
However, Middlesbrough’s interest has thrown a wrench into those plans with the English side moving swiftly to secure his signature.
Middlesbrough’s pursuit of Iheanacho is tied to their own transfer dealings, particularly the imminent departure of star striker Emmanuel Latte Lath.
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The Ugandan international is keen to help the Brewers to the league title following his move from Kampala-based Police FC.
The club has accepted a £22 million bid from MLS side Atlanta United for Latte Lath, and while the Ivorian forward has yet to agree to personal terms, Boro are already lining up replacements.
Iheanacho’s availability presents an attractive option, given his experience in English football with Manchester City and Leicester City.
Adding further weight to the move, Middlesbrough are also in talks to sign young winger Samuel Iling-Junior from Aston Villa.
The England Under-21 international, who has struggled for game time while on loan at Bologna, is expected to join alongside Iheanacho to strengthen Michael Carrick’s squad.
Boro currently sit seventh in the Championship table and are pushing for a playoff spot, making Iheanacho’s arrival a potentially crucial piece in their promotion push.
