West Ham United secured the signing of highly-rated striker Ademipo Odubeko on Friday after he rejected a new contract at Manchester United, and there seems to be a clear plan in place.
The 17-year-old opted for West Ham over Atletico Madrid and Juventus after scoring a staggering 35 goals at youth level last season.
Manuel Pellegrini’s summer striker exodus has left Sebastien Haller as the stand-alone proven striker at the top level, meaning options are slim.
It doesn’t look like Odubeko will be immediately introduced to the first team though…
Speaking to the official club website, academy manager Ricky Martin explained Odubeko’s initial role in more detail:
He’ll start with the Under-18s and will enjoy opportunities to work, develop his own game, and act as a focal point in attack for different age groups, including the Under-23s.
Read West Ham’s verdict
With Albian Ajeti yet to make an impact in English football, the Hammers are crying out for attacking reinforcements.
However, it’ll be good to see the Republic of Ireland Under-17 international mould himself into the youth set-up first in East London.
If he continues his prolific form, there’s no reason why he can’t be called up sooner rather or later but it’s arguably the right call.
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