Iheanacho Linked With Mexican club Pumas Switch Amid Sevilla Exit Talks

Nigerian striker Kelechi Iheanacho could be heading to Mexico as Club Universidad Nacional, popularly known as Pumas, weigh up a move for the out-of-favour forward, Sport360NG has learnt.

Iheanacho, currently on the books of La Liga side Sevilla, has struggled to make an impression during pre-season under the club’s new leadership, sporting director Antonio Cordón and head coach Matías Almeyda. The 28-year-old was recently sidelined from training, reportedly due to a bout of indigestion, though Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo suggested his limited involvement is a reflection of his uncertain future at the club.

With Sevilla looking to trim their squad this summer, Iheanacho is among the players expected to be moved on. As part of that process, the Nigerian international has now been offered to Mexican top-flight side Pumas, according to transfer expert César Luis Merlo.

Merlo revealed that while Pumas have not dismissed the possibility of signing Iheanacho, their immediate focus remains on securing a new goalkeeper. The club’s top target is veteran Costa Rican keeper Keylor Navas, currently with Argentine side Newell’s Old Boys.

Negotiations for Navas have proven difficult, largely due to financial constraints. However, recent reports indicate progress. “Pumas initially bid $1 million, but have now increased the offer to $1.3 million,” Merlo said. “Although that figure is still below Newell’s original asking price, there’s now pressure from within the Argentine club as Navas has expressed a strong desire to join Pumas.”

If a deal for Navas is finalised, it could free up room in the club’s wage structure, potentially paving the way for attacking reinforcements among them Iheanacho.

Speaking on the situation, Merlo added, “Iheanacho has been offered to Pumas. His arrival hasn’t been ruled out, but any decision will come after they resolve the goalkeeper situation and reassess their budget.”

The Liga MX side is also exploring alternative options in goal, including experienced Portuguese keeper Rui Patrício, who is currently a free agent and may present a more affordable solution.

A breakthrough in negotiations for Navas is expected early next week, and should that materialise, talks concerning Iheanacho’s future could gather pace.