“I disagree massively”: Baffled Rio Ferdinand urges United to instantly ditch interest in star who “can’t stay fit”

Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has called on the club to ditch their interest in free agent Dominic Calvert-Lewin.

Calvert-Lewin links persist despite Benjamin Sesko’s arrival

United completed a transfer for Benjamin Sesko this month, but suggestions that they could add yet another striker to the ranks are not going away.

Heading into the summer transfer window, reinforcing the attacking department was Ruben Amorim’s top priority and the club has fulfilled his wish, adding Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Sesko to the squad.

However, with Rasmus Hojlund looking increasingly likely to leave United amidst strong links to AC Milan, the Red Devils could dip into the market for a cheap alternative to ensure Amorim is not left short of options up front. This is where Calvert-Lewin comes in.

Calvert-Lewin has been searching for a club since parting ways with Everton earlier this summer. He has been mentioned to be on the radar of teams like Newcastle, Leeds and Sunderland. However, his preference is believed to be United.

A recent report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that the England international sacked his agent and is now in charge of his own negotiations as he seeks to force through a move to Old Trafford.

But, in Ferdinand’s view, Calvert-Lewin is not the right signing for United as they aim to narrow the distance to their rivals.

Ferdinand’s remarks on Calvert-Lewin to United

Speaking on his Rio Ferdinand Presents podcast, the former defender said, “Dominic Calvert-Lewin? What are you chatting about bruv?”

“Calvert-Lewin can’t stay fit. No. Why would we bring him in to this club? This club is built on the academy and we’ve got Chido Obi sitting there.”

“Play him if you just need someone for a few games rather than someone who’s older and can’t stay fit.”

Ferdinand added, “Sign Calvert-Lewin? On what grounds? No, I’m sorry, I disagree massively, I disagree massively.”

“What message does that send to the rest of the Premier League or more importantly to your squad?”

United are back in action on Friday when they host Arsenal in their opening game of the 2025/26 Premier League campaign.

Featured image Gareth Copley via Getty Images

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