Rio Ferdinand claimed Man Utd signed wonderkid every club in Europe wanted, he now needs superstar

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Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has underlined the importance of Manchester United’s upcoming striker search.

The Europa League win over Lyon was followed by a crashing down to earth against Wolves.

A promising defensive performance from debutant Tyler Fredricson was undercut by the ineptitude in attack, with Rasmus Hojlund once again under-delivering.

Manchester United brought Chido Obi, 17, off the bench for the final few minutes, with the youngster hoping to show he can make the step up next season.

Chido Obi move backed, providing there is an elite forward

Manchester United swooped on Arsenal to sign teenage wonderkid Chido Obi in summer 2024, landing a player who is now the most prolific striker in Premier League under-18s history.

Chido Obi made his debut for United in February, showing the great progress he has made in the academy – and former star Rio Ferdinand commends the move.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ferdinand warns the impressive signing can only be fully effective if United sign a standout senior striker who Chido can learn from, while also ensuring his own development is not rushed.

Ferdinand said: “If you’re going to invest in a Obi, who was courted by every club in Europe, every top club wanted him. If you are going to invest in him, you need to get your number one striker right.

“He’s going to suffer without a number one striker. He’s not looking at Hojlund with any like, ‘I’m going to learn off you’.”

Rasmus Hojlund has gone backwards this season, scoring only one goal in 2025, with three Premier League goals in 28 games.

Owen Hargreaves aiming high with United recruits

Manchester United are holding talks with the agent of Matheus Cunha, aiming to line up the Wolves forward as an addition to the team.

Former United star Owen Hargreaves believes Matheus Cunha being signed along with Victor Osimhen would fix the problems up front, and provide the right support to Chido Obi.

Hargreaves said: “The days of having four strikers are gone. Osimhen, Cunha, I like that.”

Cunha can play leading the line, and also as an attacking midfielder in Ruben Amorim’s system, while Ralf Rangnick backed him in 2022.

Osimhen and Cunha could be a perfect duo for Chido Obi to learn from, while not totally blocking his own chances, assuming Rasmus Hojlund is sold to raise funds.

• READ: Who is Man Utd signing Matheus Cunha? Age, position, stats, release clause and Rio Ferdinand recommendation