Rio Ferdinand praised Lisandro Martinez ahead of his move to Manchester United, but has doubts over the Argentine's pace and size.
United quickly turned their attention to Martinez last month after his Ajax teammate Jurrien Timber opted to stay with the Dutch champions. New United manager Erik ten Hag has prioritised targets he is familiar with and the club has backed the Dutchman.
Ferdinand is a fan of Martinez's game, but highlighted two areas of concern which could hurt him.
ALSO READ: The numbers available for Eriksen at United
Ferdinand told Five on YouTube: "I think he's a good signing. The more I have looked into him, the better. I listened to [Jurrien] Timber and he said that 'I wasn't at my game at a certain point and Martinez always shouts at me' - so he's got that element of being a leader. United have needed that for a long time, he will demand of others. He is very aggressive, physical and can play. His question marks are his height and his pace - they are the only two."
Ferdinand also speculated over whether Martinez could operate as a defensive midfielder for United, with Harry Maguire and Raphael Varane expected to be the starters at centre-back next term.
Ferdinand said: "I think it'll be a mix (of centre-back and defensive midfield). I saw a quote from Ten Hag's assistant and how they were surprised of how well he played in there. I think they can mix it up with him - he can bring protection to the defence.
"But if we're against a lesser team where we will see more of the ball and dominate possession then he may slot back into the centre-back position - he gives us that option in which we're lacking in that area."
READ NEXT:
