Rio Ferdinand says Manchester United and Chelsea need look no further than Brazil and Paris Saint-Germain defender Marquinhos if they want to land a centre-back, describing the player as the ultimate big-game player.
The two Premier League heavyweights are both in the market for a new central defender in the summer, with the Red Devils rumoured to be in discussions to sign Villarreal’s Pau Torres and the Blues linked with the likes of Jules Kounde and Niklas Sule.
But Rio says there is only one star they should be looking at to upgrade their defence, identifying Paris Saint-Germain skipper Marquinhos as one of the very best centre-halves in the world.
‘If any team is in the market for a centre-back, right now, out of the top teams, with the finances, Marquinhos is the only place I’m going,’ Rio said on his Vibe with Five YouTube show.
‘Big-game player. Every big game you see that guy play he turns up. Fit as you like, quick, robust, hardened, battle-hardened, understands the big-game environments. Top, top player, great attitude, leader, got it all.
‘If I’m looking for a centre-back of experience who can take me to the next level, he’s the one I’m going for.’