Manchester United are continuing to scour the world for young strikers.
Back in 2024, Ineos struck a low-key deal to lure Chido Obi away from Arsenal. There was a lot of excitement about the young forward, who made his first team debut at 17.
Obi has taken a little bit of a step back in 2025/26, as United have restricted him to playing academy football.
When he signed for the club, all the talk was about the ‘first team pathway’ United were looking to offer Obi.
Before he left the club, Ruben Amorim caused controversy with talk of ‘entitlement‘ from young players, urging them to earn opportunities and not expect them. There was an iota of truth in what he was saying.
Now in 2026, Manchester United are being linked with signing another striker, Independiente del Valle forward Juan Angulo.
Would you give Chido Obi another chance in the first-team?
He's improved a lot for Manchester United…
Chido Obi playing against Fulham U21
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Manchester United have to keep signing young strikers
Juan Angulo is a talented young prospect currently playing in Ecuador. He could be the next great South American forward, he could fail to reach his potential. Nobody can possibly know at this point.
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What is important is that Manchester United take a swing and keep on trying to sign these prospects.
Angulo’s name is interchangeable with a dozen other young striker prospects around the world.
Manchester United must take a punt on one this summer, and not rest on their laurels.
United can’t afford to think, ‘we signed Chido Obi in 2024, he will suffice’, when we don’t know if he will actually make it as a first team star.
United can’t worry about blocking Obi’s path or creating too much competition. In fact a battle for places is actually a big positive.
If Harry Kane wanted to return to the Premier League this summer, would you sign him for Manchester United?
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A message to Chido Obi
Signing another young forward would be a message to Chido Obi. It could help motivate him to reach a higher level.
But it also shows United’s future won’t be tied to his development, or lack of.
There is a strong chance Obi heads out on loan in 2026/27. United will need another forward who can play at academy level. It’s important to keep rolling the dice.
Gabriele Biancheri and Louie Bradbury are both in the mix at different stages of their development.
One may break through. United can’t assume they will.
Continuing to sign young talent, at a measured rate, will show that the club are serious about continuing to try and recruit the best.
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