Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has dismissed doubts raised by ex-Ghana striker Asamoah Gyan over Victor Osimhen’s willingness to join the Red Devils, insisting the Nigerian forward would accept a move if United made an offer.
Gyan, speaking on the latest episode of Rio Presents, questioned why Manchester United and other Premier League giants failed to pursue Osimhen during the summer transfer window, while suggesting the striker might be reluctant to move to Old Trafford.
Responding on the programme, Ferdinand was unequivocal. “Osimhen will join United,” he said. “If United offer to sign him, he will go — 100 percent.”
Osimhen joined Turkish giants Galatasaray for £65 million this summer after an initial loan spell with the club. The 26-year-old has been prolific, scoring 47 goals in 41 appearances across all competitions.
The Nigeria international has established himself as one of Europe’s most reliable goal scorers, having previously played a key role in Napoli’s Serie A title triumph. He was also heavily linked with a move to Chelsea and attracted interest from clubs in Saudi Arabia before his switch to Turkey.
Despite reported interest from Manchester United, Arsenal and Chelsea, none of the Premier League clubs completed a deal for Osimhen, opting instead to strengthen their attacks elsewhere.
The decision surprised Gyan, who praised Osimhen’s work ethic and goal-scoring instinct. “He plays with heart and gives everything,” Gyan said. “I’m surprised the bigger clubs didn’t pick him up, but I still feel there’s a connection with Manchester United if he wants to go there.”
United, Arsenal and Chelsea signed Benjamin Šeško, Viktor Gyökeres and João Pedro respectively, but the new forwards have faced early challenges this season.
Former United midfielder Paul Scholes has since questioned his club’s decision, suggesting Osimhen would have been a better option, while ex-Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel also expressed disappointment that the Blues did not move for the Nigerian striker.
