Rumour Mills: Rio Ferdinand tasks Manchester United to prioritise Osimhen over Gyokeres

By Wale Mustapha

Former England and Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has advised his former club to pursue Victor Osimhen over Victor Gyokeres in their search for a proven striker this summer.

The Red Devils are in urgent need of attacking reinforcements following a disappointing 2024/25 season, which saw them finish 15th in the Premier League and record the lowest goal tally in the club’s history.

United’s current attacking options, including Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee, failed to deliver consistently, prompting calls for the club to bring in a more experienced and clinical forward.

While both Osimhen and Gyokeres enjoyed stellar campaigns—Gyokeres netting 39 goals and 8 assists for Sporting Lisbon en route to winning the Portuguese league, and Osimhen bagging 37 goals and 7 assists in Galatasaray’s league and cup double—Ferdinand believes the Nigerian has the edge.

“I think Gyokeres, everyone’s talking about him. Again, 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,” Ferdinand said in an interview with The Mirror.

Osimhen, known for his explosive pace, strength, and finishing ability, has long been linked with a move to the Premier League, and United may now be ready to reignite their interest.

Both players remain under contract with their current clubs, but with the summer transfer window open, speculation over their futures is set to intensify in the coming weeks.