Does Victor Osimhen know how to play in the Premier League? — Ferdinand

Rio Ferdinand, the former Manchester United defender, has expressed concerns over the potential signing of Victor Osimhen from Napoli, stating that it would be a risky move for the Premier League club.

Victor Osimhen, who had an impressive season with Napoli, scoring 23 goals to help them secure the Serie A title, has been linked with a move to Old Trafford.

Ferdinand believes that while Osimhen has proven his goal-scoring abilities in France and Italy, there is uncertainty about his adaptation to the English top flight. The former England international acknowledged Osimhen’s success as a prolific No. 9 at a dominant team in the Serie A but questioned whether his skills would seamlessly translate to the demands of the Premier League.

The 24-year-old Nigerian forward possesses the necessary attributes and profile to succeed in the Premier League.

However, Ferdinand emphasized the unknown factor of how well Osimhen would adapt to the English game. He pointed out that his lack of experience in the league could pose a potential risk for Manchester United.

Nonetheless, Ferdinand believes that either Osimhen or Harry Kane would be worthy signings for the club. He acknowledged Kane’s proven track record as a consistent goal scorer, guaranteeing 20 to 25 goals per season. Ferdinand expressed confidence in Kane’s ability to deliver those numbers for Manchester United.

Ferdinand shared his thoughts on the potential signings during an episode of his VIBE with Five podcast, where he discussed various topics related to football and Manchester United.

Despite recognizing the risks associated with Osimhen’s adaptation to the Premier League, Ferdinand indicated that he would be content with either Osimhen or Kane joining the club.

“Osimhen is a different kettle of fish. He’s 24, he’s scored goals in France and now in Italy. Won the league (in Italy) and knows how to win leagues.

“He’s been a No.9 at a dominant team in the football league. Is that transferable to the Premier League? No one knows that. That’s the chance United would have to take on him.

“That’s the only risk I see. He doesn’t know the league – that’s it. Ability wise and profile, goalscoring, he ticks every box, but there is an unknown factor in does he know how to play in the Premier League? Can he adapt to the Premier League?

“But I wouldn’t see that as a big risk. I’d take either of those two and I’d be happy but the one thing with Kane, he guarantees you 20 or 25 goals a season. There’s no doubt in your mind he gets that when he comes to Man Utd,” Rio Ferdinand was quoted saying.