Manchester United could give striker prodigy Chido Obi-Martin his debut before the end of the season, according to reports.
The situation at Old Trafford could hardly be more favourable for the 17-year-old, who swapped Arsenal's youth ranks for United's earlier this year. Obi-Martin has been piling in goals at U18 level, while first-team strikers Joshua Zirkzee and Rasmus Hojlund are both in poor form.
The teenage superstar only turned 17 at the end of November, but the Manchester Evening News claim that United are open to handing him a senior debut during the current campaign. Obi-Martin is averaging a goal every 50 minutes in the U18 Premier League, and he has scored twice in his only FA Youth Cup appearance for the Red Devils.
Related articles
Obi-Martin refused a contract at Arsenal, where he reportedly demanded first-team opportunities at some point in 2024/25. The Gunners were unable to offer guarantees, whereas United look set to give the talented prospect what he wants.
With 32 goals in 18 league games for Arsenal's youngsters last term, Obi-Martin obliterated their single-season record and put himself on the map. Now he is firmly on course to make a splash under Ruben Amorim, and a tug-of-war is already underway at international level.
Obi-Martin was born and raised in Denmark to Nigerian parents, and he has represented the Danes at various youth stages. The forward has also turned out twice for England U16.
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
He sparked excitement over the Christmas break by sporting an old England U16 shirt in a training session photo posted to Instagram. It remains to be seen whether that suggests Obi-Martin is considering a return to the Three Lions set-up, having previously explained his reasoning for choosing Denmark.
"I was born in Denmark, and I have better friends in Denmark," he told Bold. "I'm just really happy to play for Denmark. In Denmark, I have better team-mates. It's easier to speak the language because I've lived in Denmark longer, so it just makes more sense."
Related articles
While Obi-Martin is making a beeline for United's senior side, another young striker is also making waves at Carrington. Gabriele Biancheri, who is one year older than Obi-Martin, has scored 16 goals in 17 games this season.
With Hojlund averaging a Premier League goal every 400 minutes and Zirkzee failing to impress on the whole, a shake-up could be exactly what United need as they fight their way back into the top half of the table.
