Manchester United have confirmed that striker Chido Obi will join Eredivisie side Willem II on a season-long loan, pending the usual registration process. The announcement came 24 hours after the Premier League window closed for English clubs at 11pm on Tuesday.
Extra 24 hours for Dutch market
The Netherlands kept its transfer market open until midnight on Wednesday, giving United an additional day to decide whether to keep Obi at the club or send him out to gain first-team experience. After the club turned down a loan offer for Joshua Zirkzee from Everton late in the window, Obi was given permission to leave on a temporary basis.
Obi's record and loan departures
Obi made his United debut in February 2025 against Tottenham and has made eight senior appearances in total. Last season he scored 15 goals in 31 matches for the Under-21s, highlighting the former Arsenal youngster's potential as one of the club's most exciting young forwards.
Obi joins a growing list of players leaving United on loan this summer. Jack Moorhouse secured a loan move to Dundee on deadline day, with his exit confirmed on Wednesday evening. Other academy prospects who have headed out on loan include Ethan Wheatley, Jacob Devaney and Jayce Fitzgerald.
Permanent departures and total exits
The summer also saw several permanent departures of academy graduates. Toby Collyer moved to West Brom in a deal potentially worth up to £7.6million for United, while goalkeeper Radek Vitek signed for Middlesbrough in an arrangement that could reach £14m.
In total, 26 players left United this summer, either permanently or on loan. The club had aimed to raise greater funds through player sales but once again found it difficult to offload those considered surplus to requirements at Old Trafford.
