Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand and ex-Liverpool striker Peter Crouch have urged the Red Devils to prioritise the signing of Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen in the upcoming summer transfer window.
Manchester United have been linked with several forwards, including Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap, Wolves’ Matheus Cunha, and Osimhen, who is currently on loan at Turkish giants Galatasaray from Napoli.
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Man United struggling under Amorim
Under manager Ruben Amorim, United are enduring one of their worst-ever Premier League campaigns. The Red Devils sit 14th in the table with only 10 wins from 34 matches, suffering 15 defeats and collecting just 39 points with four games remaining.
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Only four clubs have scored fewer goals than United this season, with forwards Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee criticised for their lack of cutting edge in front of goal.
Ferdinand: Osimhen has what United need
Ferdinand believes Manchester United should target an experienced striker like Osimhen, who can ease the goal-scoring burden and mentor Hojlund, rather than opting for another young prospect like Delap.
“Forget Delap’s ability or potential right now. Manchester United need someone who’s experienced and knows how to score,” Ferdinand said on his YouTube channel.
“Hojlund needs help, not a competitor. He needs someone to take the goal-scoring weight off him so he can learn and grow. Osimhen has played for Galatasaray and Napoli, big clubs with big pressure, and he’s thrived in hostile environments.”
Crouch: Proven quality makes the difference
Crouch backed Ferdinand’s view, saying Osimhen’s consistent performances at top level make him a safer bet than Delap.
“I think Delap has proved he’s a Premier League striker. The only issue is it’s just been one season,” Crouch said.
“Osimhen has been doing it for years. As much as I rate Delap, if it’s between him and Osimhen, I’d go with the Nigerian because you know what you’re getting. A proven striker can change games and win you matches you didn’t expect to win.”
