Manchester United’s summer transfer activity has earned high praise from Rio Ferdinand, who highlighted three standout qualities that Bryan Mbeumo would bring to Old Trafford. The former defender also hinted that a top striker is “waiting for the call” to join the Red Devils.
The 2024/25 campaign was disastrous for United, as they recorded their worst-ever Premier League finish—15th—and produced an underwhelming performance in the Europa League final. New boss Rúben Amorim struggled to find consistency with the expensive squad he inherited, and the pressure is now on him to turn things around in the upcoming season.
With the 2025/26 Premier League fixtures just released, the club is working hard behind the scenes to reestablish itself as a force in English football. After sealing a £62.5 million move for Matheus Cunha from Wolves, United are now closing in on their next signing: Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo.
The Cameroonian forward had a stellar season, scoring 20 goals and assisting nine more in 42 games—averaging a goal contribution every 123 minutes.
Rio Ferdinand is impressed with United’s approach so far. Speaking on his *Rio Ferdinand Presents* YouTube channel, he said, “I’m happy with Cunha—that’s a player I had on my list. Hopefully it goes well for him. But I’ve felt optimistic in past transfer windows, only to be disappointed. I just hope he doesn’t end up on that list.”
Ferdinand added that he’d be even more pleased if the club completed the Mbeumo deal. When asked what makes Mbeumo a good fit, he pointed to three key traits:
“First, he *wants* to join. I know that. Second, his Premier League numbers over the last three years are outstanding—goals, assists, and overall chance creation. Third, he’s already proven in the league, which means no adjustment period—except maybe to the size and pressure of Manchester United.”
He emphasized the difference in expectations between United and other big clubs:
“There’s pressure at Arsenal, sure, but it’s not the same. The United badge is heavier.”
Ferdinand also believes Mbeumo won’t be United’s last signing this summer. He’s confident the club will bring in a marquee striker—and strongly believes Victor Osimhen is holding out for the opportunity.
**Ferdinand says Osimhen is waiting for United**
Osimhen, who has scored 151 career goals, reportedly turned down a move to Saudi club Al-Hilal, indicating that he still sees the Premier League—especially United—as his preferred destination. However, his £400,000-per-week wage demands may need to drop for a transfer to happen.
While Liverpool have entered the race, with a potential swap deal on the table, Ferdinand still sees United as a viable option:
“They know who I want—everyone knows: Osimhen. He’s turned down Al-Hilal, so surely he’s waiting on Manchester United. The only problem is, I’m not sure United will go for him.”
Napoli are open to selling the striker this summer and may settle for a fee around €75 million (£64m/\$86m), giving United potential room to negotiate.
**Other Transfer Updates:**
* United are reportedly considering a swap deal involving two players in an effort to sign Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt.
* Jadon Sancho is said to have agreed to a surprise move away from Old Trafford, though there are still a couple of obstacles before the transfer can be finalized.
* The club is also open to allowing Antony to leave, with an unusual agreement reportedly helping facilitate his exit.
As the summer window heats up, Manchester United appear poised for several major moves aimed at reshaping their squad and reigniting their competitive edge.
