‘I don’t see it’ – Roy Keane pinpoints Man Utd’s ‘big issue’ under Michael Carrick and delivers brutal title verdict

ROY KEANE has warned Manchester United that their summer spending will not be enough to turn them into Premier League title contenders. The Red Devils have made strengthening their midfield a major priority this summer as Michael Carrick looks to build on last season’s progress. Roy Keane has explained why he thinks Man United are still very lightweight when it comes to winning the Premier League Credit: YouTube / The Overlap Michael Carricks’s side have made some really interesting signings but that might not be enough Credit: EPA United have already splashed out £48million on Andrey Santos from Chelsea and triggered Youri Tielemans’ £35m release clause at Aston Villa. They are also reportedly closing in on a £65m deal for Brighton star Carlos Baleba as Carrick continues to reshape his squad. Sign up for the Football newsletter Thank you! Dream Team is back, free, and there’s £100,000 up for grabs! But former United captain Keane believes the club still have a major problem to solve before they can realistically challenge for the title. Speaking on Stick to Football, Keane questioned whether United’s revamped midfield would be strong enough to compete with the Premier League’s best sides. The former Ireland international admitted the additions would give Carrick plenty of quality in the middle of the park, particularly alongside Kobbie Mainoo. But he insisted the squad remains short of what is required to win the league. Asked whether Baleba’s potential arrival would give United a strong midfield, Keane said: “I think that’s a good way of putting it, a good midfield. SUN VEGAS WELCOME OFFER: GET UP TO £100 BONUS “But if you’re on about winning the league, I think it’s short. Most read in Sport “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.” Keane believes United’s defensive weaknesses could ultimately prove to be their downfall. He pointed towards problems across the back four, insisting the full-backs and centre-backs remain a major concern despite the club’s heavy investment elsewhere. Keane added; “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.” Manchester United are closing in on signing Carlos Baleba from Brighton Credit: Getty They have signed the experienced Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa Credit: Getty Keane also gave his verdict on Tielemans’ arrival after United activated the Belgian midfielder’s £35m release clause. The former United skipper praised the club for making a relatively measured investment compared with some of their previous big-money deals. However, he stopped short of believing Tielemans can take United to the very top. 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.” Keane’s verdict leaves Carrick with a clear warning as United continue to strengthen ahead of the new campaign. While their midfield options appear increasingly impressive, the former captain believes defensive reinforcements are still essential if the Red Devils are to turn their ambitions into a genuine title challenge. Comment now