It is apparent that Manchester United intend to bolster their offense this summer. This should come as no surprise given that they scored 44 goals in the Premier League previous season, the fifth-lowest total in the division.
Mattheus Cunha has already come from Wolves, while Bryan Mbeumo has been listed as a target – though Thomas Frank’s presence at Tottenham Hotspur may jeopardize that transfer for the Red Devils. However, those two are not genuine centre-forwards.
In that regard, Ramus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee have struggled, while Victor Gyokeres has been hailed by many as a surefire upgrade. However, club icon Rio Ferdinand believes they should look for another striker instead.
Ferdinand warns about Gyokeres’ lack of experience.
“I don’t want any striker”
In an interview with Mirror Sport, Ferdinand laid his cards on the table, stating that Ruben Amorim should pursue Victor Osimhen over Goykeres. He highlighted why he prefers a forward with more experience:
“Manchester United require an experienced centre forward. That is it. I believe United can go out and get a large number of players and other assets. But I believe it’s clear that Hojlund came in for a lot of money and has struggled since. Zirkzee hasn’t performed much better than him.
“So, I believe you need someone in all of the successful teams you observe. They usually have at least one of the attacking players, typically the number nine. And you say, “Actually, yeah, I can pin my hat on him.” I can count on him.
“I believe Hojlund’s lack of experience has been a major problem. So, I don’t want a striker. I believe I’ve mentioned it on my podcast several times. I believe that a striker with experience knows his way around the football field and can teach the young players they’ve invested in, such as Hojlund, Zirkzee, and Chido [Obi].
He went on to select Victor Osimhen as his favorite candidate, explaining why he believes the Nigerian is a better fit than the Swede. He said:
“I believe Gyokeres is the person everyone is talking about. Again, if I were in the market now and had to choose between him and Osimhen, I’d probably go with Osimhen because of his experience.
“And he’s proven he can do it in multiple leagues. He’s also done it overseas. I believe he is a top-class number nine from whom new players may learn. I’m not suggesting Gyokeres will fail. I’m only stating that if I had a preference, I would go there.”
The good news for Ferdinand and those who agree with him is that Osimhen has recently been connected with the Red Devils and appears to be interested in a transfer. Indeed, sources indicate that he is ready to continue playing at the highest level in Europe, having previously rejected a move to Saudi Arabia.
This might open the door for Manchester United, who are reportedly in negotiations with the Nigerian striker, according to Italian outlet Footmercato. It will be intriguing to see which strikers United and Amorim choose to prioritize this summer.
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