Man Utd ready to accept ‘request’ for Arsenal’s Chido Obi-Martin as star breaks through youth ranks | Football

Manchester United could hand wonder striker Chido Obi-Martin his debut before the end of the season, according to reports.

The situation at Old Trafford could hardly be more favorable for the 17-year-old, who swapped Arsenal’s youth ranks for United’s earlier this year. Obi-Martin has bagged goals at U18 level, while first-team forwards Joshua Zirkzee and Rasmus Hojlund are both in poor form.

The teen superstar only turned 17 at the end of November, but Manchester Evening News claim United are open to giving him a senior debut in the current campaign. Obi-Martin scores a goal every 50 minutes in the U18s Premier Leagueand scored twice in his only FA Youth Cup appearance for the Red Devils.

Obi-Martin turned down a contract at Arsenalwhere he according to reports asked for first-team opportunities at some point in 2024/25. The Gunners have been unable to offer guarantees, while United appear to be giving the talented prospect what he wants.

With 32 goals in 18 league games for ArsenalHis youth, in the last quarter, Obi-Martin erased his single-season scoring record and put himself on the map. It is now firmly on the way to making a bit of a sub Reuben Amorimand a tug is already underway internationally.

Obi-Martin was born and raised in Denmark to Nigerian parents and has represented the Danes at various youth stages. The striker has also played twice for England U16s.

He sparked excitement over the Christmas break by wearing an old England U16 shirt in a photo posted of the training session. Instagram. Whether that suggests Obi-Martin is considering a return to the Three Lions setup remains to be seen, having previously explained his reasoning for choosing Denmark.

“I was born in Denmark and I have better friends in Denmark,” he said Daring. “I’m very happy to play for Denmark. In Denmark, I have better teammates. It’s easier to speak the language because I live in Denmark longer, so it makes more sense.”

As Obi-Martin makes his way to United’s senior team, another young striker is also making waves at Carrington. Gabriele Biancheri, who is a year older than Obi-Martin, has scored 16 goals in 17 games this season.

With Hojlund an average of a Premier League goal every 400 minutes and Zirkzee failing to impress overall, a change could be just what United need as they fight their way back into the top half of the table.