'Scored 4 goals' – Nigerian scout reveals how Obi-Martin joined Arsenal, also discovered Calvin Bassey

Nigerian talent spotter Paul Aladejare has revealed that several clubs were interested in signing Chido Obi-Martin before Arsenal won the race for the signature of the Danish-born Nigerian center forward.

Obi-Martin was on the radar of Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea, but Arsenal pulled off a major transfer coup to bring the 17-year-old to their Hale End Academy. 

The prolific striker joined Manchester United in the summer transfer window, after turning down a scholarship contract at the Gunners.

Before moving to England with his family in 2020, Obi-Martin had already established a solid reputation at the youth team of Danish Superliga giants FC Copenhagen with his brother.

Within just twenty minutes of a trial game, Aladejare was so impressed with Obi-Martin that he immediately called his boss to witness his talent firsthand.

Speaking to The Athletic (subscription required), Aladejare said: "You'll have to come here right now and find out this player's mother. 

"There are scouts from all the London clubs who want to know who he is and where he comes from."

Obi-Martin showcased a glimpse of his promising potential during the trial game in 2020.

Aladejare added: "He scored four goals. All were the result of wonderful endings. In the last minute he got the ball on the side of the pitch, went past three players, cut into the pitch and kicked the ball into the far corner at top speed like it was nothing. He was the real deal."

Paul Aladejare, who was appointed Academy Talent Identification Scout at Watford in November, has fifteen years scouting experience and previously worked at Barnet, Arsenal, Reading, Crystal Palace, Leicester City, Brighton & Hove and Blackburn Rovers. 

He is credited with discovering Super Eagles central defender Calvin Bassey and bringing him to Leicester City from grassroots football.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel 

Copyright ANS
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com