Manchester United has made significant moves in the transfer market this summer, and the latest addition to their squad is Dutch forward Joshua Zirkzee. The club confirmed the signing of Zirkzee on July 14, 2024, with the deal reportedly costing £35 million. This acquisition marks a strategic effort by United to bolster their attacking options ahead of the new season. Zirkzee, who previously played for Bayern Munich and Feyenoord, brings a wealth of talent and potential to Old Trafford.
The signing of Zirkzee is not the only major move by United this summer. Just days before securing the Dutch forward, Manchester United also finalized a deal for 18-year-old French defender Leny Yoro from Lille. The highly-rated defender was signed for a reported fee of £52.18 million. Yoro’s addition is seen as a crucial step in strengthening United’s defensive line, which has been a priority for manager Erik ten Hag. The young Frenchman is expected to be a long-term asset for the club.
In addition to these high-profile signings, Manchester United is now turning its attention to another promising talent from the Arsenal academy, Chido Obi-Martin. The 16-year-old forward has caught the eye of several top clubs, but it is United who appear to be leading the race for his signature. Obi-Martin, whose contract with Arsenal recently expired, is free to negotiate with other teams. The teenager had an outstanding season with Arsenal’s under-18s, scoring an impressive 29 goals in 17 matches.
Despite Arsenal’s efforts to retain Obi-Martin by offering him a scholarship, the young forward has decided to explore opportunities elsewhere. Manchester United has reportedly held preliminary discussions with the player, who also visited the club’s training ground at Carrington. While talks are still in the early stages, there is optimism that United can secure his services. However, competition is stiff, with local rivals Manchester City also expressing interest in the Danish striker.
Obi-Martin’s potential move to Manchester United would be a significant loss for Arsenal, who have seen the teenager excel since joining their academy from Danish club KB in 2022. His prolific scoring record, highlighted by standout performances such as a ten-goal haul in an under-16 match against Liverpool, has made him one of the most exciting young prospects in Europe. Internationally, Obi-Martin has also made his mark, contributing to Denmark’s UEFA European Under-17 Championship qualification campaign. If United succeeds in signing him, it will further underscore their commitment to developing young talent and reinforcing their squad for the future.
