Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has criticised his former club for what he described as costly transfer mistakes, insisting that the Red Devils should have signed Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen.

Ferdinand’s comments followed United’s 1-1 draw away to Leeds United at Elland Road, a result that extended the club’s poor run of form. Ruben Amorim’s side have now managed just one win in their last seven Premier League matches, leaving them three points off the Champions League places and 17 points behind leaders Arsenal.

United fell behind to Brenden Aaronson’s opener before Matheus Cunha restored parity for the visitors, a goal that earned praise from Amorim after the match.

However, Ferdinand was unimpressed by United’s attacking options, particularly summer signing Benjamin Sesko, who endured another quiet outing. The £74 million forward has now gone 11 games without a goal and has scored only twice in 17 appearances for the club.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ferdinand said United made a “huge mistake” by failing to complete a deal for Osimhen last summer. The Nigeria international was linked with several clubs before joining Galatasaray for £65 million, and has since scored 12 goals in 16 matches this season.

“I still think we should have signed Victor Osimhen,” Ferdinand said. “There were no doubts about him. It’s pure experience, and that’s what United need right now.”

The former England international also revisited another decision he believes continues to haunt the club — the sale of Danny Welbeck. Welbeck, now 35, has enjoyed a resurgence at Brighton, scoring eight goals so far this season.

“I’ve said before they should never have sold Danny Welbeck,” Ferdinand added. “He’s reliable, he scores goals and you can trust him. That decision still doesn’t sit right with me.”

Ferdinand, however, urged patience with Sesko, noting that the young striker is still developing and needs better service from his teammates.

Manchester United will hope to return to winning ways on Wednesday night when they face Burnley at Turf Moor in their next Premier League fixture.