Bundesliga club Koln are weighing up a surprise loan deal for Manchester United striker Chido Obi this summer, according to The Athletic.
The 18-year-old signed for the Red Devils from Arsenal in September 2024 and made eight appearances during his debut campaign at the club.
However, he did not make a single appearance last season, and there is now speculation that he could be loaned out to further his development.
The Athletic now claim that Obi has caught the eye of Koln, who are monitoring a potential loan deal. United are yet to receive any direct contact from the German outfit.
Obi would benefit from Bundesliga experience
The teenager is widely regarded as one of the best young strikers. He had a solid 2025/26 season with the development side, scoring 20 goals and providing six assists.
Obi did not get any exposure with the senior squad last term, and the situation could be similar next season, given United are competing in the Champions League.
Benjamin Sesko is the preferred number nine for the Red Devils. There is solid competition behind.
Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha can operate as makeshift strikers when required. Joshua Zirkzee is the other specialist centre-forward in the first-team squad.
Zirkzee continues to be linked with a possible return to Serie A. If that were to happen, the club’s hierarchy could pursue another competitor behind Sesko.
Obi may not make his major breakthrough at United next season. In our view, a full loan campaign with Koln in the Bundesliga could be ideal for his development.
Said El Mala had a brilliant debut season at the German club at just 19. He contributed 13 goals and five assists in 34 outings, and has been touted for a big-money exit.
Ragnar Ache is the specialist senior striker at Koln, but scored just seven league goals last term. Obi has the chance to be a regular starter for the Bundesliga side upfront.
A good return could see him promoted as United’s backup striker behind Sesko in 2027/28.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
