Arsenal are facing the potential loss of their record-breaking young striker, Chido Obi Martin, as Manchester United seeks to secure his signature.

The 16-year-old Danish forward has become a sought-after prospect after turning down Arsenal‘s contract offer and visiting several clubs in the UK and Germany.

Obi Martin’s decision to explore his options comes after a phenomenal season with Arsenal‘s U18s, where he netted an impressive 32 goals in just 18 games, shattering the club’s record for most goals scored by a player at that level in a single season.

His remarkable goal-scoring exploits included a 10-goal haul in a single game against Liverpool at the U16 level and a seven-goal performance for the U18s in a 9-0 demolition of Norwich. These feats, along with his training sessions with the Arsenal first team and appearances for the U21s and in the UEFA Youth League, have solidified his reputation as one of the brightest young talents in English football.

Manchester United‘s interest in Obi Martin comes as no surprise, given his prodigious talent and potential. The Red Devils are reportedly keen to finalise a deal for the youngster quickly, potentially securing his services on scholarship terms before he turns 17 in November, when he would be eligible to sign a professional contract.

Arsenal, on the other hand, are understandably disappointed to lose such a promising talent. They had reportedly offered Obi Martin a significant contract extension, but the young striker appears determined to pursue opportunities elsewhere.

The Gunners’ academy has been a breeding ground for young talent in recent years, with players like Ethan Nwaneri making their first-team debuts at a young age. Obi Martin’s decision to leave Arsenal highlights the competitive nature of youth development in football, as clubs constantly vie for the most promising prospects.

Obi Martin’s international allegiance is also a point of interest. He has represented both Denmark and England at youth level and is also eligible to play for Nigeria through his father. While currently playing for Denmark, he has the option to switch back to England before turning 18.

As the transfer saga unfolds, Arsenal will be looking to secure compensation for Obi Martin’s development, as he is under 17 and therefore not eligible for a transfer fee. The Gunners will likely receive a training compensation fee, which is based on the player’s age and the length of time he has spent at the club.

The loss of Obi Martin would undoubtedly be a blow for Arsenal, but the club’s academy continues to produce talented youngsters. The challenge for the Gunners will be to retain these promising players and provide them with a pathway to the first team, ensuring that they don’t lose out on future stars to rival clubs.