Rio Ferdinand would prefer FC Porto forward Mehdi Taremi at Manchester United rather than Wout Weghorst

Manchester United icon Rio Ferdinand would prefer that the Red Devils sign FC Porto star Mehdi Taremi rather than Besiktas’ Wout Weghorst.

The Old Trafford side are linked with a move for the Holland international. He is currently on loan at the Turkish outfit from Championship side Burnley.

However, speaking on Vibe with Five on Youtube (h/t Metro), Ferdinand, who spent 12 years at United, revealed that he would have Taremi at the club over Weghorst. When asked about the Holland international’s potential arrival, the ex-defender said:

“I’d have gone and got Taremi in from Porto.”

The Iran international has been with the Dragoes since the summer of 2020. He has been prolific in Portugal in the Primeira Liga outfit over the years.

In the current campaign, the 30-year-old has made 24 appearances in all competitions for Porto. He has found the back of the net 18 times and has provided nine assists.

Taremi also shone for Iran at the 2022 World Cup. The 30-year-old started in every group stage fixture for Team Melli, scoring two goals against England in their 6-2 defeat. But Carlos Queiroz’s team were unable to qualify for the knockout rounds.

United currently have just one natural striker in the squad at the moment in Anthony Martial. Unfortunately, the 27-year-old has struggled with injuries in the current campaign. Recently, the France international has not completed 90 minutes for United.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s departure has dwindled Erik ten Hag’s options up front. Thankfully, Marcus Rashford has done well this season. But we evidently still need to add reinforcement in the attack.

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Taremi has a £53 million release clause in his current contract. But the striker’s age does not make him a compelling buy. On the other hand, the Old Trafford side are trying to get Weghorst on loan. A short-term deal will let us evaluate the forward and then make a decision in the summer.