Former United defender says Osimhen has the experience not just to deliver but also serve as a figure the club’s younger strikers can learn from
Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand wants the club to sign Victor Osimhen rather than Viktor Gyokeres, as Osimhen’s proven track record across Europe makes him the ideal candidate to lead United’s attack.
The Nigerian international enjoyed a prolific season on loan at Galatasaray from Napoli, scoring 37 goals in 45 appearances across all competitions, far surpassing the seven league goals shared by United’s current strikers Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee in 2024-25.
“[United need] a centre-forward with experience,” Ferdinand told Mirror Sport. “Hojlund came in for huge money and hasn’t hit the ground running, has struggled really. Zirkzee hasn’t done much better.
“I think you need someone in all the good teams you see. They normally have at least one of the attacking players, normally the No 9, and you can pin your hat on him. You can rely on him.
Ferdinand said “Hojlund’s lack of experience has been a big factor” as the player had only one season of football for Atalanta, where he scored nine goals, before making the big step up. He also said United should not just go for any striker but one with experience.
“I think I’ve said it on my podcast many times. United need a striker with experience, who knows his right way around the football field, who the young ones they’ve invested in, like Hojlund and Zirkzee and Chido [Obi], can learn from.
“Everyone’s talking about Gyokeres. 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.
“He’s done it in multiple leagues now, and he’s done it internationally as well. I think he’s a top-class No 9 who, again, the young players will be able to learn from.
“I’m not saying that Gyokeres would fail. I’m just saying that if I had a preference, I would go there.”
