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Manchester United legend labels Donny van de Beek as “one of the best in the world”

Manchester United confirmed the signing of Donny Van de Beek on Wednesday following his £40 million transfer from AFC Ajax.

Legendary Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand was very vocal about how excited he is to see Van de Beek play for the club when the season kicks off on 19 September.

In a video posted to his YouTube channel, he said, “He brings goals, he brings assists, he runs into the box, [he has] a good work ethic and an unbelievable brain. [As an] Ajax guy, he knows how to play good football.

“Edwin van der Sar, my old mate – did you see it, by the way, on social media? He put crying faces when I said van de Beek on his way into Man United – he wasn’t happy.

“He knows what he’s letting go, he knows his quality, he knows his class.”

“Imagine van de Beek alongside the likes of Bruno Fernandes, being fed. I’ve got a little stat for you here. I’ve been doing a bit of research, because that’s what I do,” Rio continued.

“In the last three seasons, if you put him up against any of the midfielders in the Premier League, in terms of goal involvements, where do you think he ranks?

“At a guess I said seventh or eighth. He’s second, only to Kevin de Bruyne.

The Dutch midfielder has netted 40 goals and 29 assists in his last three seasons for Ajax.

“That’s unbelievable, to be fair, and [de Bruyne]’s one of the best in the world. So he’s sitting in good company.”

Ferdinand went on to agree to the fact that it would take the 23-year old some time to gel with his teammates.

“Will it happen immediately? Time will tell. What you do know is United are getting a good player. A solid, all-round player, who understands the game.”