Manchester City complete signing of striker in seven-figure deal as transfer deadline looms

Manchester City and the City Football Academy have completed the signing of teenage striker Divin Mubama from West Ham United.

The 19-year-old becomes Manchester City’s latest addition to the City Football Academy this summer, and is set to predominantly feature for Ben Wilkinson’s Elite Development Squad during the 2024/25 campaign, despite having made first-team appearances in east London.

The striker, who scored 58 goals in 90 youth appearances for West Ham, made 18 first-team appearances under David Moyes at the London Stadium, including five Premier League showings last season.

Mubama memorably scored during a UEFA Europa Conference League win over Larnaca in March 2023, and has an impressive goalscoring record in the Premier League 2, netting 12 goals in 20 appearances during the 2022/23 campaign.

The Manchester Evening News report that Manchester City have paid a £2 million training compensation fee to West Ham for the teenager, with the seven-figure sum being paid due to Football Association rules surrounding homegrown players.

The outlet also reveal that the England Under-20s star is not expected to be a first-team option next season, despite Manchester City only have one recognised forward in Erling Haaland.

Mubama confirmed his move to the Etihad Stadium with an Instagram post, writing: “Firstly I would like to thank everyone at West Ham, players & staff who all played a massive role in my development during my 11 year journey.

“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 alot 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 me with open arms any and everytime 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”.