Arsenal youngster Chido Obi-Martin has reportedly accepted an offer from Manchester United after turning down “higher bids” in favour of an Old Trafford switch.
Tipped as the biggest thing to come out of Arsenal academy, Obi-Martin confirmed his departure from the Gunners through an Instagram post on Monday night. The 16-year-old prodigy expressed his gratitude for his opportunities and experiences at Arsenal over the past four years.
Arsenal reportedly made serious efforts to retain him and had made an offer that they deemed to be fair but it was not enough to convince Obi-Martin.
According to transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, despite being offered more money by other clubs from Germany, Obi-Martin has chosen to join United. His decision was influenced by his belief in the ongoing project at Old Trafford, which he found more compelling than the financial incentives offered elsewhere.
Obi-Martin joined Arsenal from Kjobenhavns Boldklub in Denmark and quickly made a name for himself, representing Arsenal’s U18 side at just 15 years old and scoring a hat-trick in his first start.
His most remarkable performance came in a U16 game against Liverpool, where he scored an astonishing 10 goals in a 14-3 victory.
Obi-Martin continued to impress by netting seven goals in a 9-0 win over Norwich at U18 level.
He will be eager to replicate this form at Man United. United under the guidance of Erik ten Hag have seen several young talents like Kobbie Mainoo, Ethan Wheatley, and Toby Collyer given opportunities to shine at the Theatre of Dreams.
The club’s commitment to developing young talent might have been a key factor in influencing Obi-Martin’s decision.
