Rio Ferdinand Urges Manchester United to Sign the World’s Top Striker Rio Ferdinand is calling on Manchester United to make a move for the world’s best striker ⚽. He believes bringing in a top-class goal scorer is crucial for the team’s success and future ambitions. The pressure is on the club to deliver big time
Rio Ferdinand Urges Manchester United to Target Victor Osimhen to Revive Their Attack
Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has called on his old club to make a serious move for Napoli’s star striker, Victor Osimhen. Speaking on his Rio Presents podcast, Ferdinand emphasized that signing a prolific, experienced frontman like Osimhen should be a priority if United want to reestablish their dominance in English football.
With Erik ten Hag’s future uncertain and Rúben Amorim reportedly lined up as a possible replacement, the team is expected to overhaul its squad this summer. And according to Ferdinand, adding firepower up front is non-negotiable.
Goal-Scoring Struggles Spark Concern
United’s offensive frailties were on full display in their recent goalless Manchester derby. After back-to-back matches without scoring since the international break, fans and pundits are increasingly frustrated. While midfield playmaker Bruno Fernandes leads the team’s scoring charts, strikers Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee have struggled with consistency.
That’s why Ferdinand believes Osimhen—who’s been in sensational form with 28 goals in 32 appearances during a loan stint at Galatasaray—could be the answer.
> “Victor Osimhen is the kind of player who can transform United’s frontline. He has experience, presence, and the kind of instincts you want in a number nine. He could lead our young forwards and raise the standard,” said Ferdinand.
Despite not having Premier League experience, Osimhen’s performances in Serie A and Europe show he can handle top-level pressure.
United Eyeing a Cheaper Alternative?
However, recent reports suggest United may instead pursue Ipswich Town forward Liam Delap. ESPN reports that the 22-year-old, who came through Manchester City’s academy, is now high on United’s list of striker targets—above Osimhen, Viktor Gyökeres, and Benjamin Sesko.
Delap has scored 12 goals in a challenging campaign for Ipswich and would reportedly cost around £40 million, making him a more budget-friendly option compared to Osimhen’s €64 million release clause.
While Delap offers potential and fits the club’s new youth-oriented recruitment model under INEOS, there’s concern over whether he’s ready to lead the line at Old Trafford.
Ferdinand Backs Experience Over Potential
Ferdinand remains firm in his stance—United can’t afford to gamble on inexperience if they want results now.
> “We need a reliable finisher with a proven track record. Osimhen offers that. If you’re building a winning side, you go with someone who has already delivered on the big stage.”
Osimhen’s combination of strength, movement, and big-match composure is what United have been lacking since the days of Robin van Persie or peak Romelu Lukaku.
Final Verdict: Go Big or Gamble Small?
United now face a critical decision: invest heavily in a proven scorer like Osimhen, or take a more cautious route with a rising talent like Delap. With the club’s identity and ambitions on the line, Ferdinand’s message is clear—if winning is the goal, Osim
hen is the striker to lead the charge.
