Ferdinand reveals how he helped Man Utd sign ‘top player’ Cavani

Edinson Cavani TEAMtalk

Rio Ferdinand has revealed that he told Edinson Cavani to join Manchester United in January, before explaining why the striker will be a success.

United wrapped up the signing of free agent Cavani on deadline day after he had been released by Paris Saint-Germain earlier in the summer.

Cavani scored 200 goals in 301 games for the French giants, and United will now be hoping to benefit from his talents.

And few people are happier about the signing than former Red Devils defender Ferdinand – who has revealed that he got in touch with Cavani back in the winter.

He said on YouTube: “It’s mad because I reached out to Cavani on social media in January.

“I used to do it as player. I would get hold of players and ask, ‘would you come to Manchester United?’ Because I’m a fan! I message players all the time.

“Listen, Cavani was flattered that someone connected to the club was saying that. I thought he would jump at the chance [to join] and that’s what has happened.”

 

The 33-year-old will bring experience to United’s frontline, with the more youthful trio of Anthony Martial, Marcus Rashford and Mason Greenwood having started most games recently.

But despite some having concerns about Cavani’s age, Ferdinand is confident that the striker will elevate United to the next level.

He added: “I highlighted Cavani as a player to buy during the last transfer window. We’ve got three supremely talented young strikers who need help.

“They’re going to need assistance. Martial is a prime example because he’s going to be suspended now [after his red card against Tottenham] and we need someone to step in.

“The way Cavani plays, the way he applies himself, the way he trains, his experience, what he could teach the likes of Mason Greenwood.

“He’s scored so many goals and won multiple trophies. For Greenwood to watch him on a daily basis, he will benefit the most.”

Ferdinand backs Cavani to match Larsson impact

Rio Ferdinand TEAMtalk

The ex-England international continued by comparing the signing of Cavani to when United brought in Henrik Larsson on loan in 2007.

By that point, the former Celtic and Barcelona striker was 35 years old, but Ferdinand saw first hand the impact of signing such a player could have.

Continuing his praise of Cavani, he said: “Is he long-term? No, he’s not. But I played in a team where we bought Henrik Larsson in.

“You ask the strikers like Wayne Rooney if he brought value to the squad? The answer is yes.

“If Cavani can have that affect with this group of players then it’s worthwhile.

“Listen, he’s a top player. Experienced, gets goals, he’s someone who will be good value for the club.”

READ MORE: Jose Mourinho predicts how Edinson Cavani signing will affect Man Utd