United View: Further signings still needed

Last week, I said I was concerned regarding Manchester United’s lack of transfer activity, with the start of the Premier League season just around the corner. 

Fast forward seven days, and absolutely nothing has changed. 

As always, the rumour mill is in full swing, with The Reds linked to a number of players, but this still hasn’t progressed towards the club showing any concrete interest. 

As has been the case for a number of weeks, United have been linked with Newcastle United’s Lewis Hall, but a formal bid doesn’t seem to be forthcoming. 

Instead, it seems the higher ups at Old Trafford are turning their attention towards cheaper options, such as Racing Santander’s Jorge Salinas. 

While I don’t know much about the young Spaniard, I know he is nowhere near the level of Hall, which is worrying considering left back has been such a problem position with Luke Shaw’s injury issues. 

There were also reports earlier this week that out of favour Arsenal youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly had been offered to United, and while I’d welcome such a talented and versatile player, his arrival seems unlikely, with the club seemingly distancing themselves from the deal. 

I have little issue with United turning down a player if they do not believe he is the right fit, but it does leave an obvious question: if Hall is unavailable and Lewis-Skelly is not considered the answer, who exactly are United going to sign? 

That is becoming the frustrating part of this window. 

On a positive note, the Reds have made two additions this summer in Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos. 

Santos has been one of the brightest performers of pre-season, impressing with his composure and physicality in the deeper role.  

His display against Paris Saint-Germain was another encouraging sign, while Shea Lacey also caught the eye against the European champions. 

There is plenty to be excited about when it comes to the younger members of the squad, but United cannot afford to rely solely on potential. 

The need for another midfielder remains clear. Tielemans offers plenty of quality further forward, but United still lack the athleticism and defensive security needed in front of the back four. 

There is still time, of course, and United have already shown how quickly things can move with the arrivals of Santos and Tielemans. 

But with the Champions League returning to Old Trafford, Carrick needs a squad capable of handling a significantly greater workload. 

The upcoming friendly against Leeds will provide another opportunity to assess where United currently stand, while a chance for early bragging rights are also on offer. 

What will matter most is whether the next two performances continue to show signs of progress, with the season opener with Hull City now just over a week away.