Who Should Manchester United Chase: Delap or Osimhen? Former Stars Weigh In

The debate over which striker Manchester United should target in the upcoming summer transfer window is heating up, with former players offering their insights on the matter. As the Red Devils struggle through one of their worst seasons in recent memory, the focus has turned to reinforcing their attacking options.

Legendary figures like Rio Ferdinand and Peter Crouch have openly discussed the merits of signing either Liam Delap, currently lighting up the pitch for Ipswich Town, or Victor Osimhen, who is showcasing his skills on loan at Galatasaray from Napoli. With only four matches left to salvage their campaign, United's need for a clinical striker has never been more pressing.

This season has been tumultuous for Ruben Amorim's side, as the team currently sits 14th in the Premier League with an alarming 15 losses from 34 games. Scoring has been a significant issue, with only four teams managing fewer goals than United, leading many to question which direction the club should take in the transfer market.

Ferdinand advocates for Osimhen's acquisition, asserting that the Nigerian forward's extensive experience could be vital for a squad in need of guidance. During a recent discussion, he stated: "Forget Delap's ability or potential right now. They need someone who knows how to score and can relieve the pressure on their current strikers, like Rasmus Hojlund. He needs to learn, not compete." Ferdinand's emphasis on experience reflects a genuine concern over the club's current dynamics.

Contrastingly, Peter Crouch has added validity to the debate by expressing confidence in both players. He believes that while Delap has shown promise, Osimhen's proven track record makes him the safer bet. Crouch noted, "A striker can change the dynamics of the game and go on to win matches you never expected to win." His comments underscore the importance of having a reliable finisher in the squad.

As the Old Trafford hierarchy prepares for a significant overhaul, the discussions surrounding these two strikers reflect deeper issues at the club. With the prospect of relegation looming over Ipswich Town, Delap's release clause of £30 million has garnered interest from various clubs, including Chelsea. Yet, with individual talent struggling to shine in a lacklustre setup, the need for effective team dynamics cannot be overstated.

In summary, as Manchester United navigates a turbulent season, the choice of which striker to pursue may have long-lasting implications for the club’s future. With varying opinions from football legends, it remains to be seen who will ultimately don the famous red shirt next season. For now, the question stands: will United prioritise experienced craftsmen like Osimhen or take a gamble on Delap's potential?

What are your thoughts on this striker dilemma? Should Manchester United invest in proven talent or take a chance on bringing in young blood? Share your opinions in the comments below!

• Liam Delap
• Manchester United
• Victor Osimhen