Kelechi Iheanacho turned down a loan move to Derby County before securing a switch to Middlesbrough during the winter transfer window.
According to The Telegraph UK, the Nigerian forward, who struggled for game time at Sevilla, opted for a return to English football, favouring Michael Carrick’s side over Derby’s relegation battle.
Derby viewed Iheanacho as a key addition to their attack, but the former Leicester City striker prioritized a move to a more competitive team.
Middlesbrough, pushing for a Championship play-off spot, offered a more appealing project.
Iheanacho’s struggles in La Liga, where he failed to score and found himself on the fringes under García Pimienta, led to his decision to seek a move in January.
Boro acted quickly to secure his services, strengthening their attacking options amid injuries and inconsistency.
However, he is yet to register a goal or assist in his last six games for the side since his Winter move.
