Rio Ferdinand has called on Manchester United to make a decisive move for Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen in the upcoming transfer window, insisting the forward could be the key to resolving the club’s ongoing issues in front of goal.
The former United captain voiced his opinion on his podcast, stressing the urgent need for a proven goalscorer at Old Trafford as the club continues to struggle with attacking consistency this season.
“We need Osimhen, someone who can score and who can set an example for the young strikers at Man United. If I were Man United, I would do everything to sign him,” Ferdinand said.
Osimhen, 26, has attracted attention from several top European clubs over the past year and has frequently been linked with a move to the Premier League.
The Nigerian international has previously expressed interest in playing in England’s top flight, further fuelling speculation about a potential switch.
Though currently on loan at Turkish champions Galatasaray, Osimhen remains contracted to Napoli, where he made his name with a prolific run in Serie A.
His pace, physicality, and clinical finishing have made him one of the most sought-after forwards in Europe.
Ferdinand, who spent over a decade at the heart of Manchester United’s defence, believes Osimhen possesses the ideal profile to thrive in the Premier League and provide the kind of firepower that has been missing from Erik ten Hag’s side this season.
“It doesn’t matter that Osimhen hasn’t played in the Premier League yet, I’m confident he’ll score wherever he goes,” Ferdinand added. “We need someone with that mentality, that drive and experience to hit the ground running.”
Manchester United’s current campaign has been marred by inconsistency, particularly in the final third.
With the club’s young attacking talent still developing, Ferdinand believes a striker of Osimhen’s calibre could offer both leadership and reliability.
As speculation surrounding the club’s summer plans grows, Ferdinand’s comments add further weight to calls from supporters and pundits for a bold signing to reinvigorate the attack.
With Osimhen reportedly open to a Premier League move, the coming months could prove decisive for both the player and a Manchester United side searching for answers up front.
