'I'd pick Osimhen' – Rio Ferdinand urges Man Utd to sign Super Eagles striker over Gyokeres

Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has called on his former club to prioritize Napoli’s Victor Osimhen over Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres in their search for a proven centre-forward this summer.

Speaking exclusively to Mirror Football, Ferdinand emphasized the need for an experienced striker to address United’s goalscoring woes after a dismal 2024/25 Premier League campaign, where they scored just 44 goals, the fifth-lowest in the division.

Ferdinand highlighted the struggles of current forwards Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee, who managed only four and three league goals, respectively. 

"I think Hojlund’s lack of experience has been a big factor,” Ferdinand said, stressing the importance of a seasoned number nine who can lead the line and mentor younger players like Hojlund, Zirkzee, and Chido Obi. 

While Gyokeres, who scored 39 goals in Portugal’s Primeira Liga, is a top target, Ferdinand believes the 26-year-old Osimhen is the better fit due to his proven track record across multiple leagues and internationally.

"I think if I’m looking at the market now and I had to pick him or Osimhen, I’d probably pick Osimhen because of that experience," Ferdinand stated. 

"He’s shown he’s done it in multiple leagues now. And he’s done it internationally as well. I think he’s a top-class number nine who the young players will be able to learn from." 

Osimhen, unsettled at Napoli, recently rejected a £63m move to Al-Hilal, signaling his desire for a Premier League switch. 

However, United face competition from Chelsea and Juventus, and Napoli’s high valuation could complicate negotiations.

With manager Ruben Amorim overseeing a squad overhaul, including the recent £62.5m signing of Matheus Cunha, Osimhen’s experience could be pivotal in United’s bid to return to the Premier League’s top four.

Wale Adejumo

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