Ferdinand Worries Man United Could Be Taking £61M Transfer “Gamble” As Romano Confirms Contact With Player’s Camp

Man United legend Rio Ferdinand believes signing RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko would be a “gamble”.

Journalist Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that the Red Devils have been in touch with the Slovenian’s entourage ahead of a potential €70m (£61m) bid for the player, but Ferdinand is worried by the forward’s lack of experience:

“I’m not really doubting [Sesko] as a player. I’m saying Man United need experience at the top of the pitch. They’ve got Hojlund, Zirkzee, and Chido – they’re young and inexperienced.”

“They need someone who can show them how to lead the line at the highest level. Do we really want to gamble on a player who’s still raw?”

All of Man United’s striker targets have pros and cons

While Ferdinand is correct to highlight Sesko’s inexperience, the club’s other options are not without risk either.

Ollie Watkins may cost the same amount, with an asking price of around £60m, but he will turn 30 at the end of this year. The player would have no sell-on value.

Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson is also under consideration, but while he is about to hit his prime (at 24), Sesko arguably has a higher ceiling than the Senegalese international.

Any move for Sesko depends on sales

It should be pointed out that, while the Red Devils have contacted the player’s camp, the chances of a bid being made in the near future are quite slim. Funds would need to be raised to finance any move for the 22-year-old.

With that being the case, there is a danger that Sesko could choose to join another team instead. Newcastle are reportedly eyeing him as a possible replacement for Alexander Isak and they are in a position to make their move now.

In other news, we look at how Man United’s second string is shaping up ahead of the new season