Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has claimed that Victor Osimhen is only interested in joining the Red Devils after turning down a huge-money move to the Saudi Pro League, Footynaija.com reports.
The Nigerian forward, who recently ended a loan spell at Galatasaray with 37 goals in all competitions, is expected to leave Napoli this summer. With just one year left on his contract, interest around the 26-year-old has grown even more intense.
Reports earlier suggested that Al-Hilal had reached an agreement with Napoli for the striker’s transfer, but the move has now fallen through after Osimhen reportedly rejected the offer.
Ferdinand has now weighed in on the saga, stating that Osimhen’s decision was deliberate, and tied to his desire to play in the Premier League – particularly for Manchester United.
Speaking on his Rio Presents YouTube channel, Ferdinand said,
“No.9? They already know who I want. The comments know, the people know who I want, who I would go and get: Osimhen! It looks like he’s turned down Al-Hilal… he must be waiting for Manchester United.”
As confirmed by Goal.com, Ferdinand’s comments come just days after Napoli were said to have agreed a deal worth over £64 million with the Saudi outfit.
However, Osimhen’s commitment to top-level European football continues to stand strong, and Ferdinand believes that United should not hesitate in making a move.
Osimhen continues to be monitored by multiple clubs, but Manchester United remain strongly linked, especially with the current uncertainty surrounding their attack.
The likes of Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee are still developing. New signing Matheus Cunha has arrived, but Ferdinand believes the Nigerian offers something different and should be the next name on the list.
“I’m happy with Cunha,” Ferdinand added.
“But if they get Osimhen, that would be another level. That’s who I’d go for.”
