Rio Ferdinand, former Manchester United defender, has expressed his support for United’s potential move for Chelsea outcast Raheem Sterling. However, Ferdinand also warns that the arrival of Sterling could leave Antony and Amad Diallo concerned about their futures at the club.
Currently, United and Chelsea are in talks over a swap deal that would see Sterling join United and Jadon Sancho head in the opposite direction. Sterling has been frozen out of the Chelsea squad by head coach Enzo Maresca, while Sancho’s prospects at United are also looking bleak. The former Borussia Dortmund star has not made the matchday squad for the opening two games of the season.
Ferdinand believes that United should push for the deal to go through, as he is convinced that Sterling would bring valuable experience and goals to Old Trafford. However, he acknowledges that the arrival of Sterling could impact the playing time and positions of Antony and Amad Diallo.
Marcus Rashford and Amad Diallo have been United’s first-choice wide options at the start of the season, with Alejandro Garnacho still adjusting to the team. Amad Diallo managed to score in the recent 2-1 defeat to Brighton, but Ferdinand suggests that the Ivorian would prefer Sterling not to join the club in order to secure his place in the side.
Furthermore, Ferdinand warns that Antony, who has only played one minute so far this season, would immediately become the fifth-choice option if Sterling were to arrive before the transfer deadline.
Ferdinand emphasizes the importance of healthy competition within the squad and believes that Sterling’s addition would bring experience, goals, and a hunger to prove himself. He also mentions that Sancho, who featured in United’s preseason campaign, needs to find game time and reboot his career if he is not getting enough opportunities at United.
Overall, Ferdinand supports United’s pursuit of Sterling, highlighting the potential benefits for both players involved in the swap deal. However, he also acknowledges the potential impact on the current United players and the need for healthy competition within the squad.