Rio Ferdinand has revealed he contacted Edinson Cavani to ask him to join Manchester United months before his move to Old Trafford.
The Red Devils wrapped up a deal for Uruguay legend Cavani on transfer deadline day, with the 33-year-old striker signing a one-year contract with the Premier League club.
Cavani has scored 341 goals in 556 club matches, including a record 200 in 301 appearances for PSG, who he left in June.
Reacting to Cavani’s move to Manchester United, Red Devils legend Ferdinand told the FIVE YouTube channel: ‘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.’
Ferdinand believes Cavani will turn out to be an excellent signing for Manchester United and benefit current forwards Marcus Rashford, Anthony Martial and Mason Greenwood.
He added: ‘I highlighted Cavani as a player to buy during the last transfer window because 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.
‘He’s scored so many goals and won multiple trophies. For Greenwood to watch him on a daily basis, he will benefit the most.
‘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.
‘Listen, he’s a top player. Experienced, gets goals, he’s someone who will be good value for the club.’
On transfer deadline day, Manchester United also signed Brazil defender Alex Telles and Atalanta winger Amad Diallo.
