Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has urged the club to explore the possibility of signing Napoli’s Victor Osimhen on loan before the January transfer window closes, Soccernet.ng reports.
Ferdinand believes the Nigerian striker could be the perfect addition to a struggling United attack, while also serving as a mentor for young forwards Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee.
Osimhen, 26, is currently on a season-long loan at Turkish giants Galatasaray after falling out with Napoli’s head coach Antonio Conte.
The Nigerian has been in sensational form, scoring 16 goals and providing five assists in 20 appearances, including 12 goals in just 15 league matches.
Despite his current deal with Galatasaray, Osimhen remains under contract with Napoli until June 2027, giving the Serie A side significant control over his long-term future.
Speaking on Rio Presents, Ferdinand expressed his desire to see Manchester United pursue the prolific striker.
“I have watched Hojlund closely the last two games… it just doesn't add up,” Ferdinand remarked.
“I'd be going to get Osimhen now if we can do it from a financial standpoint. Get him on loan now!”
Ferdinand highlighted Osimhen's qualities, saying,
“He guarantees you someone who can score goals, has experience, and has done it at the top level.”
“You look at [Joshua] Zirkzee who's similar to him. They both need someone to learn from, someone who knows what it takes to be a Manchester United No.9.”
FIFA rules allow Osimhen to feature for another club this season, as he did not play for Napoli before his loan move to Galatasaray. This opens the door for United to explore a deal, provided Napoli recalls him and agrees to send him to Old Trafford.
United have reportedly been assessing their attacking options ahead of the transfer deadline. They were linked with Paris Saint-Germain forward Randal Kolo Muani, but the Frenchman moved to Juventus on loan last week.
Ferdinand believes Osimhen’s quality and experience could transform United’s fortunes while offering invaluable guidance to their young attacking duo.
“Osimhen brings the finishing touch, leadership, and a proven track record at the top level,” Ferdinand said. “He’s exactly what United need right now.”
While a mid-season move remains complex, Ferdinand’s advocacy underscores the urgency for Manchester United to strengthen their attack as they aim to reignite their campaign.
Please stop insulting Victor. He is perhaps in the top 3 strikers in the world. He is good for a loan spell to mentor others, but not good for you to offer a permanent deal, albeit because he is African. How ironic.