Man Utd complete transfer on eve of crunch Aston Villa clash as statement released

Manchester United have completed the signing of former Arsenal wonderkid Chido Obi Martin after finally receiving Premier League approval. The 16-year-old striker has taken to social media to express his excitement over the transfer ahead of getting to work in United’s youth ranks.

Obi Martin made the headlines in October 2023 for scoring 10 goals in a single game as Arsenal’s U16s demolished Liverpool 14-3.

In April this year, he notched seven for the U18s in a 9-0 victory against Norwich City, sparking further excitement about his future at the Emirates Stadium.

But Obi Martin rejected a new Arsenal contract due to concerns over his pathway to the first team and the club’s project, opening the door for United to swoop in.

The Red Devils reportedly agreed the deal in July but were forced to wait while the Premier League ratified Obi Martin’s switch.

On Saturday, the prolific teenager, who scored 32 goals for the Arsenal U18s last season, took to Instagram to confirm he had completed his move to Old Trafford.

He wrote: “Very happy to sign with this amazing club, time to focus and achieve all my dreams. Thanks to everyone who has helped me get this far.”

Obi Martin accompanied his caption with images of him signing his United contract and a throwback snap of his much younger self donning one of the club’s shirts.

The arrival of the Denmark youth international, who has also represented England, is considered a significant coup for United.

He had superior offers from elsewhere in Europe but opted to commit his future to Arsenal’s Premier League rivals, where he is expected to start in the U18 and U21 sides.

Obi Martin will be gradually eased into action, having been forced to train away from Carrington between leaving Arsenal and signing his contract.

United’s head of the academy, Nick Cox, echoed the same as he welcomed the club’s latest recruits on Saturday.

“We welcome Samuel Lusale, Chido Obi-Martin and James Overy to the club,” Cox wrote on the United website.

“All three young players will join up with our Professional Development Phase as they adjust to life in Manchester and become acquainted with their new team-mates. It can be a difficult process for some players, while others slot right in.

“Whatever the scenario, our staff will be on hand to care for these young boys and make sure their experience at the academy is an overwhelmingly positive one that sets them up for life.

“Good luck to Samuel, Chido and James, well done to our recruitment team and congratulations to the families and wider support networks involved in these boys’ journeys. Signing for Manchester United should be a proud day for everyone involved.”