Rio Ferdinand expresses admiration for Manchester United’s top January acquisition, stating, “I can’t believe we’ve secured him.”

Rio Ferdinand is of the opinion that Omar Berrada will be Manchester United’s most crucial signing this month after successfully securing the highly-regarded executive from rivals Manchester City.

Berrada, 46, will assume the role of the club’s new chief executive officer, a move considered a significant achievement for United.

This appointment follows Ineos chief Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s £1.25 billion deal for a minority stake in the club with the Glazer family.

Ferdinand expressed his admiration for the acquisition of Berrada, describing him as United’s “best January signing” during a discussion on FIVE.

According to Ferdinand, individuals associated with Manchester City are astonished that United managed to secure Berrada.

“They believe he has made significant contributions to the game at various levels, achieving success, and see this as a sharp and commendable signing for us.

I think, considering the current circumstances, this could potentially rank among our best January signings. As of now, Berrada stands as United’s sole addition since the January transfer window commenced.

Whether Erik ten Hag can bolster his squad before the February 1 deadline remains uncertain.

While the Dutchman desires reinforcements, especially in the attacking department, it appears more likely that he will reshape the squad during the summer transfer window, coinciding with the full establishment of Ratcliffe and Ineos.”

Ten Hag acknowledged last month that the likelihood of significant signings in January was low.

In an interview with United We Stand, when questioned about potential transfer activity, he stated, “I don’t think so — and if so, the approach from United should be that if you can improve your team, then you should do.

What we expect from every player coming to Carrington every day is for them to give their maximum, to give their best. As a club, you have to look for improvements, so if you can find better and it’s realistic financially and with financial fair play, I think the club has to go with it.”

“Realistically, in terms of the market, most of the time, you don’t attract the best players in the winter. The top, top players will not leave their clubs during the winter. It’s typically players who are disappointed, injured, or not the right fit, or for various other reasons.”