Man Utd should prioritize pursuing Osimhen over Gyokeres, according to Ferdinand.
In a recent discussion, former Manchester United and England defender, Rio Ferdinand, has expressed his dissatisfaction with the current performance of the Red Devils' strikers. He believes that a striker with experience could significantly aid the development of younger players such as Hojlund, Zirkzee, and Obi.
One potential candidate Ferdinand has suggested is Victor Osimhen, a striker who has played in multiple leagues and boasts international experience. Osimhen, currently at Galatasaray, scored an impressive 26 goals in 30 league games last season.
A comparison of Osimhen and Viktor Gyokeres, another striker with links to United, reveals some interesting insights. In the recent league seasons, Gyokeres has outperformed Osimhen in terms of goal tally, shot conversion, and big chances conversion rates. Gyokeres scored 39 goals in 33 league games, while Osimhen managed 26 goals in 30 games. Gyokeres also demonstrated a higher shot conversion rate at 28%, compared to Osimhen’s 18.8%, and a better big chances conversion rate at 57.4%, compared to Osimhen’s 46.9%.
However, it is worth noting that Osimhen's experience in top leagues and international competitions is often considered an important factor in assessing his overall value. Osimhen also won the Süper Lig Golden Boot last season.
Rio Ferdinand, expressing a need for a center-forward with experience at Manchester United, has urged the club to consider signing Osimhen from Galatasaray. He does not suggest that Gyokeres would fail, but prefers Osimhen for his experience and international exposure.
Meanwhile, Rasmus Hojlund, one of the younger strikers at Manchester United, struggled last season, scoring only four goals in 32 Premier League appearances. His shot conversion rate was 12.5%, and he missed six of his nine big chances, with a 33% ratio of missing them. Ferdinand suggests that Hojlund's lack of experience has been a significant factor in his struggles.
It remains to be seen whether Manchester United will heed Ferdinand's advice and make a move for Osimhen. The club has already signed Matheus Cunha from Wolves, but the need for a more experienced striker remains.
Rio Ferdinand, former Manchester United and England defender, proposes signing Victor Osimhen from Galatasaray, given his international experience and impressive performance in European leagues. Despite Gyokeres' better goal tally, shot conversion, and big chances conversion rates, Ferdinand prefers Osimhen for his experience, as he believes it could aide the development of younger players like Hojlund at Manchester United.
