Bayern Munich are reportedly in advanced negotiations to sign Arsenal young striker Chido Obi-Martins this summer, despite ongoing contract talks between the player and the Gunners.
The 17-year-old Danish international has caught the attention of the Bavarian giants after a stellar season with Arsenal academy, where he scored an impressive 32 goals, including a remarkable 10 goals in a single match against Liverpool.
Obi-Martins’ prolific form has excited Arsenal supporters, who is seen as a generational talent who will be ready for first-team football in the coming years. However, Bayern Munich are keen to secure his signature amid competition from Borussia Dortmund.
An exclusive report from Academy Scoop on X indicates that Bayern are hopeful of outpacing their Bundesliga rivals in the race for Obi-Martins. “Bayern Munich are in advanced talks to sign Chido Obi-Martins, hoping to beat rivals Borussia Dortmund to the striker’s signature. The Danish talent rejected Arsenal’s most recent scholarship offer this week and looks set to walk out of the club this summer,” the report stated.
Despite this, Arsenal remain optimistic about retaining the teenage sensation, especially following his recent change in representation. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano revealed that Arteta is eager to expedite contract negotiations with Obi-Martins, who recently switched agents to the Elite Project Group, the same agency representing Arsenal star Bukayo Saka.
Arsenal, however, face significant challenges due to Premier League academy rules. Players who agree to scholarship terms must sign them on July 1 of the school year in which they turn 16. Professional contracts can only be signed upon reaching the age of 17, with a brief summer window allowing for academy transfers under specific conditions.
Moreover, Brexit has reshaped the transfer landscape for young talents with EU passports. Premier League prospects like Obi-Martins, who hold EU citizenship, are increasingly attractive to clubs in Germany, which can offer professional contracts and first-team opportunities at an earlier stage than in England—a scenario beneficial for both the clubs and the players.
Bayern and Dortmund are not the only teams interested in the Danish striker; FC Copenhagen has also stated that they hope to include him in their starting lineup for the upcoming campaign.
The Elite Project Group is anticipated to be a major player in the current talks. Notable clients represented by the group include AS Monaco striker Folarin Balogun and Manchester United winger Jadon Sancho. Even though Bayern’s financial offers present a serious obstacle, Arsenal is committed to holding onto their bright future.