Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has criticized his former club for failing to compete with Arsenal for the £51m signing of Ezri Konsa from Aston Villa.

United had been linked with the 28-year-old defender during the transfer window as they sought to repair a leaky backline, but ultimately stood by as Arsenal secured the England international’s signature in August.

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Speaking on his YouTube channel following a dismal run that saw United concede 15 goals in nine matches, Ferdinand insisted the versatile defender would have been an ideal fit for Old Trafford.

Highlighting Konsa’s tactical efficiency, Ferdinand remarked: “I said to my son yesterday, ‘watch Ezri Konsa’, because everything he does is efficient… He’s a top, top player and another one I thought Manchester United should have got.”

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Ferdinand added that Konsa’s form at both right-back and central defense has given Mikel Arteta an enviable tactical dilemma as Arsenal integrate William Saliba back into the side.

“He’s giving Mikel Arteta some big decisions to make and big headaches because he’s slipped in seamlessly and put in some big performances,” Ferdinand said. “What a signing he’s been for Arsenal.”