Nigeria international Kelechi Iheanacho has stated that Sevilla sporting director Victor Orta played a key role in convincing him to join the club.
Iheanacho completed a free transfer to the Spanish side on Wednesday, bringing an end to the speculations surrounding his future following his departure from Leicester City at the end of the last season when his contract expired.
The 27-year-old had been linked to some clubs in England, Turkey and even Saudi Arabia, but will be spending the next two seasons at Sevilla after putting pen to paper on a two-year deal.
Speaking about his decision to move to Spain, Iheanacho said the club’s sporting director was instrumental in getting him to join the seven-time UEFA Europa League winners.
Kelechi Iheanacho won over by Sevilla's pitch
Speaking to Sevilla’s in-house media, Iheanacho said, “Victor is a great person, he played a great role. Obviously, he's been watching me for a long time and he knows the player I am. He played an important role in bringing me here and we also had a good relationship.”
Iheanacho also revealed that he received offers from several clubs but ultimately decided to join Sevilla because the club presented him with a clear plan on how he would fit into their setup.
The former Manchester City forward was reportedly being tracked by Aston Villa, Everton, Crystal Palace and Trabzonspor when he became a free agent in June.
“Yes, there were offers from many clubs,” Iheanacho stated. “But obviously, there was a clear idea of what they want me to do here and why they brought me here in football terms.
“I've had the opportunity to do personal training with a coach in preseason. That also helps me stay fit. I'm not far from 100 per cent. I can play as a lone striker or as a two. Anywhere you put me, I can play. I just want to play with my heart and leave everything out there on the pitch.”
Kelechi Iheanacho scored six goals and provided three assists in all competitions for Leicester City last season.
