Chido Obi-Martin, a former Arsenal striker, is nearing the completion of his much-anticipated transfer to Manchester United.
The 16-year-old confirmed his departure from the Gunners at the end of July after two years at the club and has since reached an agreement with the Red Devils.
Despite receiving better financial offers from overseas, Obi-Martin chose United, drawn by the club’s promising project at Old Trafford.
This summer, the recruitment of top-tier academy talent has been a key priority for Man United, especially under the new football leadership team following Sir Jim Ratcliffe‘s significant £1.2bn minority investment.
Obi-Martin’s transition to United faced delays due to legal matters, but it is reportedly on the brink of being officially announced, as confirmed by Fabrizio Romano after the Premier League granted approval.
Chido Obi-Martin is reportedly on the brink of joining Manchester United
Obi-Martin (left), age 16, confirmed in July his exit from Arsenal after two seasons
Reports indicate United has completed the Premier League’s five-step transfer process as of Friday morning, with the player having passed his medical and signed the necessary paperwork.
Last season, Obi-Martin made headlines by scoring 32 goals in the Under-18 Premier League, surpassing the previous single-season record held by Folarin Balogun.
He showcased extraordinary scoring ability for Arsenal’s youth team, training under former academy standout Jack Wilshere during the 2023-24 season.
Among his standout performances, Obi-Martin scored ten goals in a remarkable 14-3 victory over Liverpool and netted seven times in a 9-0 triumph against Norwich.
The forward’s electrifying display against Norwich included a rapid-fire hat-trick in just 17 minutes, just two weeks after an incredible five-goal performance against West Ham.
Obi-Martin had an impressive scoring season with the Gunners’ youth team
The 16-year-old has former Arsenal teammates such as goalkeeper Jack Porter, Ethan Nwaneri, and Myles Lewis-Skelly, who all recently featured in the Gunners’ midweek victory over Bolton in the Carabao Cup’s third round.
Currently representing Denmark at the international level, it is reported that the teenager can still opt to change his allegiance back to England before he turns 18, should he choose to do so.
