Rio Ferdinand urges United to seal stunning deal for world-class attacker despite “crazy” numbers

Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has called on the club to explore the free signing of Robert Lewandowski this summer. Available Barcelona confirmed that Lewandowski’s time at the Camp Nou has come to an end, meaning he is set to be available as a free agent. Having secured Champions League football and finished in third place, Michael Carrick and United are set to turn their attention towards the summer window. Bolstering the midfield is believed to be the priority but other positions could come into play, with the club in need of a deeper squad ahead of the increased demands of next season. Striker is a position United could seek to strengthen, especially amidst the uncertainty surrounding Joshua Zirkzee’s future at the club. The Dutchman struggled for playing time in the just-concluded campaign and there are persistent rumours that he could be on his way out of Old Trafford. It has been mooted that he could return to Italy, where he is reportedly admired by clubs such as AC Milan, Juventus and AS Roma. Speaking on the Rio Ferdinand Presents podcast, Ferdinand urged United to sign Lewandowski, insisting that he would not only offer cover at striker, but also mentor Benjamin Sesko. Lewandowski netted 120 goals in 193 appearances for Barcelona. He helped the Catalan giants win three La Liga titles. The Poland international was even more prolific at Bayern Munich, where he scored a mind-boggling 344 goals in 375 games, winning eight Bundesliga titles and the Champions League. Ferdinand’s plea Ferdinand said, “They’re talking about [Atalanta midfielder] Ederson who we should have signed two years ago. Good footballer.” “I think we’re going to have to buy two or three midfielders to cover that area and you need to bring in legs, they need to be mobile and players who can move.” “Lewandowski isn’t a bad shout either if they’re going to get another striker. If we brought him in, look at the experience he has, the amount of learning that Sesko will do…” The six-time Premier League winner added, “If you believe Sesko is the man for the next five years, the learning he could do behind Lewandowski who is a wonderful, humble human being. He would teach and show Sesko the way and get him playing.” “That would be a sensible signing even if the numbers might be crazy in terms of wages. If you’re trying to benefit the squad he would be a great presence.” “It’s going to be a big and interesting summer to see who Manchester United go for.” Sesko finished the season with 11 goals and one assist in 30 Premier League appearances – a solid return in his maiden season in England. The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!