Roy Keane has cast doubt on Manchester United's ability to challenge for the Premier League title this season, despite a significant summer midfield rebuild that could see Carlos Baleba join the club for £65 million.
Keane questions midfield quality for title challenge
Speaking on the Stick to Football podcast, the former United captain acknowledged the club has assembled a 'good midfield' but argued it falls short of what is needed to win the league. 'I think that's a good way of putting it, a good midfield,' Keane said. 'But if you're on about winning the league, I think it's short.'
United have already brought in Andrey Santos from Chelsea for £48 million and activated Youri Tielemans' £35 million release clause from Aston Villa. The club is now close to agreeing a £65 million deal for Brighton's Carlos Baleba, whom they initially tried to sign a year ago. With Kobbie Mainoo continuing to impress under manager Michael Carrick, the midfield would gain significant depth if Baleba completes his move.
Defensive concerns remain central
Keane identified the defence as United's primary weakness, saying the full-backs and centre-halves remain a 'big issue.' He added: 'United's big problems are still going to be defensively. That midfield and going forward, there is a big goal threat at United, they were very good last year with it, especially when Carrick took over they were a real goal threat.'
Last summer, United spent close to £200 million on Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha, and Benjamin Sesko to rebuild their attack, with that investment showing promise last season. However, Keane believes the defence needs attention before title talk can be taken seriously. 'But the issue is at the back, the full-backs and the two centre-halves are still a big issue. But on paper, they [the midfield] jump out as really good players. But is there a league-winning midfield there? Probably not. No, I don't see it.'
Tielemans described as 'safety bet'
Keane also commented on the signing of Youri Tielemans, praising the club for ending a trend of spending huge transfer fees and wages. He described the Belgium international, who was a key player under Unai Emery at Villa, as a 'safety bet.' 'I think he's a good player. But I don't think it [the signing] wins the league,' Keane said. 'Tielemans is a safety bet for United. Over the last few years, Casemiro is a good example, players have come in huge money, big wages. Tielemans knows the Premier League, is a good international, having gone to Old Trafford with Villa and had success he will be fine with the expectation. But will he get United to the very top? No.'
United's summer spending has been necessitated by Casemiro's departure and Manuel Ugarte's long-term knee injury. The midfield rebuild, should Baleba join, would give Carrick multiple options in the centre of the park, but Keane's assessment suggests the club still has work to do at the back to mount a serious title challenge.
