Man Utd is actively upgrading their squad under coach Michael Carrick. The Old Trafford club has spent 48 million GBP (65 million USD) to sign Andrey Santos from Chelsea, activated Youri Tielemans' 35 million GBP (48 million USD) release clause at Aston Villa, and is nearing completion of a deal for Carlos Baleba from Brighton for approximately 65 million GBP (89 million USD).

Roy Keane commenting on the Overlap channel on 19/8. Photo: screenshot

These moves have led to Man Utd's midfield being rated higher ahead of the new season. However, Keane believes these additions are insufficient. "If we're talking about winning the league, I don't think it's enough", Keane stated on the Stick to Football program.

The former Ireland midfielder was asked about Man Utd's potential for a strong midfield if Baleba joins. He assessed that Carrick's new squad could form "a good midfield", but did not believe this midfield had reached championship-winning quality.

"On paper, they have really good players", he continued. "But is that a midfield strong enough to win the league? Probably not, I don't see it".

Man Utd's larger problem lies in defense. The 55-year-old former midfielder believes the team has enough attacking power to trouble opponents, and the midfield is improving, but defensive weaknesses could still lead to failure in a long title race. "Man Utd's big issues will still be in their defending", Keane commented.

Bruno Fernandes (left) battles for the ball with Carlos Baleba during the Brighton - Man Utd Premier League match at American Express Stadium, Brighton, England, on 24/5. Photo: AFP

The former Man Utd captain expressed concern over both full-backs and the hai center-backs. He considers this a crucial difference between a competitive team and one capable of sustaining form to win the Premier League. He believes Man Utd's attack is dangerous, but winning requires a strong defense.

Among the mentioned new signings, Tielemans received a positive assessment from Keane. This is a relatively safe transfer for Man Utd, as Tielemans has extensive Premier League experience and is accustomed to playing under pressure at Old Trafford.

According to him, Tielemans benefits from understanding English football, having played successfully with Aston Villa, and possessing international experience. These factors help the 29-year-old midfielder adapt to expectations at Man Utd more easily than a player new to the Premier League. "But can he take Man Utd to the very top? No", he stated.

Baleba is also a key part of Carrick's plans. The arrival of the Cameroon midfielder, along with Santos, Tielemans, and Kobbie Mainoo, gives Carrick more options in midfield. Keane acknowledged that these names theoretically create a quality midfield.

However, he still believes Man Utd lacks many elements to compete with the strongest Premier League teams throughout an entire season.

Hoang An (according to Sun Sport)