Manchester City have secured the signing of forward Divin Mubama, who previously played for West Ham, just before Friday’s transfer deadline.
Mubama, 19, confirmed his transfer on Instagram, sharing a picture of himself holding a ball at City’s Football Academy and captioning it with “new chapter.” Although City reportedly paid £2 million for the young striker, he won’t be joining the first team right away. Instead, he’ll be developing with Ben Wilkinson’s Elite Development Squad.
Mubama, an England under-20 international, departed West Ham after netting 58 goals in 90 youth matches and one goal in 18 appearances for the senior team. His move to City this summer follows those of Savinho and Ilkay Gundogan, but he’s expected to compete primarily at the under-21 level, where he’ll challenge Jaden Heskey, Matty Warhurst, and Will Dickson for playing time. The squad also features Justin Oboavwoduo, Emilio Lawrence, and first-team fringe player Nico O’Reilly. City’s £2 million payment to West Ham is in line with FA rules regarding training compensation for homegrown talent.
Despite being offered a contract at West Ham, Mubama chose to leave, which entitled the Hammers to the compensation fee. He had also been linked with a potential move to Portugal. Earlier this summer, City trialed Amar Fatah, a forward from their sister club Troyes, during their pre-season tour. Although Guardiola praised Fatah’s performances, the 20-year-old has since gone on loan to Willem II in the Eredivisie.
Guardiola has emphasized the importance of managing Erling Haaland’s playing time, particularly following the sale of Julian Alvarez to Atletico Madrid. Oscar Bobb was expected to see more minutes after an impressive pre-season, but he’s sidelined for around four months. Guardiola has mentioned James McAtee, Ilkay Gundogan, Phil Foden, and other forwards as potential options to fill in for Haaland when necessary. Nico O’Reilly, who has been utilized more in a defensive midfield role by Guardiola, could also be considered for a more attacking position.
Before his move to City was finalized, Mubama posted a farewell message to West Ham on social media: “Making a little boy from Newham’s dream come true by playing in the Premier League, something that I will forever be grateful for. I learnt a lot of valuable things throughout my time from top professionals on and off the pitch that I will continue on my next journey in order to help me grow and develop throughout my professional career.
“Also a big thank you to the fans for welcoming me with open arms any and every time, whether it would be on or off the pitch, and particularly those who showed me unwavering support up until now. I wish everyone associated at West Ham United FC, nothing but the best.”
