Manchester United are prepared to allow Chido Obi to leave on loan this summer after the striker was left out of Michael Carrick’s latest pre-season squad.
The 18-year-old is attracting significant interest from clubs in England and across Europe as United consider the next stage of his development.
Sport Witness, relaying Danish outlet Tipsbladet reports that United will sanction a temporary move if they believe the right opportunity becomes available. Obi remains highly rated at Old Trafford, but he is currently considered some distance from Carrick’s first-team plans.
That became particularly clear at the weekend. Obi was fully fit but did not travel to Stockholm for United’s 2-1 friendly victory over Atletico Madrid, despite Carrick including several other academy prospects in his squad.
Chido Obi loan move gathers pace at Manchester United
Obi enjoyed another prolific season at academy level after failing to establish himself in the senior side. He scored five goals in six Under-18 appearances before registering 15 goals and five assists for the Under-21s.
United now believe regular senior football could benefit his development. ReadManUtd previously examined talks over a possible loan move to FC Koln, with the Bundesliga already emerging as one potential destination earlier in the summer.
However, United will not send Obi out simply to remove him from Carrick’s squad. The club are expected to approve a deal only if the destination offers a suitable pathway and enough first-team opportunities.
Interest should not be difficult to find. Tipsbladet claims several clubs in England and across Europe are waiting to discover whether United will formally give the green light.
Obi made eight senior appearances during his first season at Old Trafford after joining from Arsenal in 2024. However, his lack of first-team involvement last season suggests a loan could now represent the logical next step.
For United, the priority will be finding a club capable of turning Obi’s outstanding academy numbers into meaningful senior experience.
