Ferdinand underwhelmed by highly-rated Bakayoko

Cape Town - Rio Ferdinand isn't convinced that Manchester United target Tiemoue Bakayoko is ready to compete in the Premier League, judging by his display against Juventus.

Ferdinand, who was a Red Devils defender, watched Bakayoko play for Monaco against the Bianconeri in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final on Wednesday, and wasn't overly impressed.

The defensive midfielder struggled to deal with the Juventus attack, in a game that ended 2-0 in the Italian side's favour, with the return leg to be played in Turin.

The 22-year-old has been linked with a move to Old Trafford at the end of the season, but Ferdinand doesn't believe he's ready.

“I think Bakayoko today we found out a lot more about him," said Ferdinand, according to Metro.

“He's had a lot of hype, a lot of news articles about him coming to the Premier League to the top teams. I don’t know if he’s ready to make that big step yet.

“There were deficiencies in his game in terms of picking people up and identifying danger.

“In that position you’ve got to sense danger, you’ve got to be the eyes and ears for the centre-halves that are there behind you.

“I don’t think he sees danger. I don’t think his best attribute is actually defending.”