Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand says Brighton midfielder Moises Caicedo should not be a priority target for the Red Devils this summer.

The Ecuadorian international has been linked with a move to Old Trafford in recent weeks and, while he believes Caicedo is an excellent player, Ferdinand wants his former club to focus on signing a new number nine instead:

“A Caicedo and an [Martin] Odegaard does not paper over the cracks of we didn’t have a number nine who scored a goal last season. If you said Caicedo came in, he would be a great signing for Manchester United, but he’s not getting you off your seat.”

Most United fans would probably agree with Ferdinand’s remarks. Recruiting a new striker who can score 20+ goals is key if Erik ten Hag’s side are to compete for honours next campaign.

United are not in the race to sign Caicedo

Although there have been a number of reports suggesting the club have made enquiries about the 21-year-old, the player’s £80m asking price means he is not a realistic option at this time.

While Caicedo has also been linked with Arsenal and Liverpool, it appears Chelsea are the firm favorites to snap him up at the moment. Reliable sources claim that the player has already agreed personal terms with the Blues and talks are expected to get underway soon to negotiate a transfer fee.

Transfer budget limitations

In an ideal world, the Red Devils would have to funds to buy a forward, a new number one and someone like Caicedo, but the club are working with limited resources.

For that reason, purchasing a new midfielder is not top of the agenda, even though there would be a clear need for one if the likes of Fred, Scott McTominay and Donny van de Beek all leave Old Trafford this summer.