Ferdinand: Is Manchester United's Transfer Budget Enough to Sign Watkins, While the Team Should Also Pursue Welbeck
ScoreFast365 August 25 - Recently, Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand analyzed on his personal podcast that there is still room for improvement in the Red Devils' summer transfer window, particularly in strengthening the forward line with potential candidates.
Ferdinand first mentioned Villa forward Watkins: “The key question is whether Manchester United's transfer budget is sufficient to cover a player like him?” With Watkins absent from Villa's heavy defeat to Brighton in the opening match, there is widespread speculation that he may leave before the transfer window closes. Since joining Villa in 2020, Watkins has scored 108 Premier League goals for the club, making him the club's all-time leading scorer in the Premier League, but his limited playing time in the World Cup this summer has intensified rumors of his departure. Additionally, Ferdinand expressed regret over Welbeck's low-cost transfer to Chelsea: “If Welbeck enters the market, Manchester United should definitely pursue him, as he can still play an important role in the rotation and is willing to accept a substitute position.”
Regarding Sheshko, Ferdinand stated: “He is of great value to the team, and I look forward to his performance this season.” Finally, he maintained a realistic attitude towards the season's goals: “The league is a long marathon, and Manchester United should aim for a top-four finish, with winning a trophy being the icing on the cake.”