For a new shooter it will be apples to apples comparison really. If you can get one of each into his hands to try before that would be a plus. You really can't go wrong with either one they will both out shoot 99.9% of the population.
Either rifle is a quality rifle with a minimum of whistles and bells Both will have about the same resale value if he wants to upgrade Ina few years. If you are interested I have two LNIB Walther LG300s juniors that would make fine beginners rifle. $1100 each
