Rio Ferdinand gives verdict on Adrien Rabiot potentially joining the Manchester United team
Manchester United are linked with a move for Juventus midfielder Adrien Rabiot this summer. Former centre-back Rio Ferdinand believes that Rabiot could be a smart addition to United, but he has warned he could be a downgrade to Frenkie de Jong.
The Red Devils have been linked with a move for de Jong all summer but to no avail. The player has no interest in joining the United side and now it looks like United are preparing to face reality.
They have started looking for alternative signings and have identified Rabiot as one. But Ferdinand has warned United about it. While he believes Rabiot to be a fine addition to the club, he is concerned he could be a downgrade on de Jong.
Speaking on Vibe with Five (h/t Manchester Evening News), Ferdinand expressed his concern about the goal-scoring ability of the Frenchman.
The position Man United probably see playing him is one of the holding players, or an eight. My biggest concern with that is that, if he’s going to be an eight, he doesn’t score enough goals. Given that they’ve been going for Frenkie de Jong, Rabiot is obviously the second, third or fourth option.
United’s midfield woes were highlighted during the game against Brighton & Hove Albion which the Red Devils lost 2-1 at home. Erik ten Hag started Scott McTominay and Fred in the middle of the park and they were woeful.
They clearly showed why United have been desperate to upgrade their midfield over the years, but have failed in doing so. Rabiot could help reduce the pain, but he won’t be the ultimate answer. The Frenchman played 32 league games for Juventus last season and failed to find the back of the net.
De Jong would have the best signing for the club, but that looks very unlikely to happen with every passing day. United are also said to have revived their interest in Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, but Lazio are reluctant to sell him.
United are said to have agreed on a fee in principle for Rabiot with Juventus and will now negotiate personal terms with the player. Ferdinand believes he will be a risk but that is something United will have to take, considering the state of the present midfield.
More Manchester United News
- The Red Devils realise deal for Frenkie de Jong difficult with Chelsea in the race
- Manchester United considering making a move for Watford forward Ismaila Sarr
- United offered chance to sign Alvaro Morata from Atletico Madrid this summer
Whether Rabiot proves to be a good signing or not, is something only time can tell. Till then fans will hope that their club can put on a better show when they travel to face Brentford this Saturday.
