Rio Ferdinand has expressed concerns over the potential transfer of Victor Osimhen to Manchester United, deeming it a risky move, and instead favors a move for Tottenham’s Harry Kane....CONTINUE READING
As manager Erik ten Hag seeks to secure a new No.9 for the 2023-24 season, United has been linked with both Osimhen and Kane.
However, Ferdinand believes that Kane would be the preferable option for the club, despite the substantial fees involved in acquiring either striker.
Reports suggest that Chelsea is also in the race to sign Napoli’s Osimhen, who is rumored to command a fee of at least €150m.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, former United defender Ferdinand emphasized the need for a No.9 at the club and discussed the ongoing speculation.
He stated, ‘We need to get a No.9 in the building,’ former United defender Ferdinand said on his YouTube channel. ‘There are two names that keep coming up – Osimhen and Kane. Ultimately, it is down to Kane and (Tottenham chairman) Daniel Levy.
‘If they both say yes and want to make it happen, I think United will get it done. The numbers can’t be ridiculous. They can get blood, sweat, tears, goals and records out of Kane.
‘Let the guy do what he needs to do now, man. Let the guy compete for Champions Leagues and (league) championships and cup competitions. They’re closer than where Spurs are, that’s the point.
‘Osimhen is a different kettle of fish. He’s 24 years old, scored goals in France and Italy. Won the league (in Italy) and knows how to win leagues.
‘He’s been a No.9 at a dominant team. Is that transferable to the Premier League? No-one knows that. That’s the chance United would have to take on him.
‘That’s the only risk I see. He doesn’t know the league. Ability wise and profile, he ticks every box, but there is an unknown factor. Can he adapt?
‘I’d take either of those two and I’d be happy but Kane guarantees you 25 goals a season, there’s no doubt he would get that.’
Ferdinand acknowledged that if Kane and Levy express a willingness to make a deal happen, United would likely be able to secure the transfer.
However, he stressed the importance of reasonable financial terms. Ferdinand believes that Kane’s proven ability to contribute goals, records, and leadership would greatly benefit United’s ambitions.
Regarding Osimhen, Ferdinand recognized the player’s accomplishments in France and Italy, including winning the league with Lille.
However, he expressed reservations about the Nigerian striker’s ability to adapt to the Premier League, citing it as the main risk associated with his potential transfer.
While Osimhen possesses the necessary attributes and profile, Ferdinand highlighted the unknown factor of his adaptation to the English top flight. He stated, “That’s the chance United would have to take on him. That’s the only risk I see. He doesn’t know the league.”
Ferdinand admitted that he would be content with either Osimhen or Kane joining United, but he emphasized the goal-scoring consistency and reliability that Kane guarantees, making him a more attractive option.
As Manchester United deliberates their striker options, they will carefully weigh the risks and benefits of pursuing a transfer for Victor Osimhen, acknowledging the unknown factor of his adaptation to the Premier League, while simultaneously considering the proven track record and prolific goal-scoring ability of Harry Kane.
