Chido Obi set for Manchester United loan exit as Feyenoord talks continue

Manchester United striker Chido Obi could leave Old Trafford on loan before the transfer deadline, with Feyenoord in talks over a move for the 18-year-old.

Obi is not considered a core part of Michael Carrick’s plans for the season, and United are prepared to sanction a temporary departure to give the highly-rated youngster more regular first-team football.

However, doubts have emerged in the Netherlands over whether Feyenoord actually need another striker.

Reports from Denmark earlier this month claimed Manchester United had opened the door for Obi to leave on loan.

Several clubs have shown interest, with Feyenoord becoming one of the more prominent possibilities.

The Eredivisie side have reportedly entered talks with United about a season-long loan, potentially offering Obi the opportunity to continue his development in the Netherlands.

The final decision over his destination is still to be made.

Algemeen Dagblad journalist Mikos Gouka has questioned the logic behind Feyenoord signing another young striker.

Feyenoord already have Ayase Ueda, Shaqueel van Persie, Casper Tengstedt and summer signing Nacho Ferricompeting for the No.9 position.

Gouka believes adding Obi would only make sense if one of their current forwards leaves or an injury creates an opening in Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s squad.

Ferri was signed for around €10m and is viewed as a potential first-choice option should Ueda depart.

There has been uncertainty surrounding Ueda's future, but Gouka says the striker has shown no indication that he wants to leave Feyenoord.

Tengstedt, meanwhile, is still expected to be sold, while Van Persie is regarded as a player who needs time to develop throughout the season.

That leaves Feyenoord with an important decision. Obi represents another talented attacking prospect, but there may currently be no obvious pathway to regular minutes in Rotterdam.

With the transfer deadline approaching, Obi will have to decide where he wants to spend the season, while Manchester United assess which loan offers provide sufficient first-team opportunities.

Feyenoord remain a possible destination, but unless their attacking situation changes, concerns over playing time could push Obi towards one of his other options.