Gary Pallister sends a transfer warning to Manchester United

Former Manchester United defender Gary Pallister fears the club could struggle to attract “top players” in this summer’s transfer window.

The Reds finished eighth in the Premier League this season but salvaged their season by qualifying for the Europa League after beating Man City in the FA Cup final.

While United have qualified for the Europa League, Ineos are understood to be awaiting the green light from UEFA due to their investment in two clubs competing in the competition.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe is not only a part-owner of United, but the British billionaire owns a majority stake in Ligue 1 side OGC Nice.

However, former United defender Pallister believes missing out on a Champions League place could come back to bite the Reds where it hurts.

Pallister told BetVictor, as quoted by the Manchester Evening News: “Top players look at clubs that are progressing. They are looking at where they can win the Premier League and the Champions League. At the moment Manchester United do not have the appeal of the Champions League and that is something that affects recruitment. United are not up there with Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City. Having said that, they have made changes in the recruitment department and hopefully that can help work magic and the club can bring some quality players into the squad. I think the strength in depth has been lacking this season and that’s why injuries are affecting the team.”

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Many fans will echo Pallister’s concerns, but United must go down the path of finding the right players for the club and the manager. That could mean staying away from a marquee signing for a few years because now is the time to fix the issues that exist in the squad. There is no point in adding players who will be upset about not playing in Europe’s biggest competition.

This summer should see the build-up of Ten Hag’s squad continue, although it remains to be seen whether the Dutchman will be retained as manager for a third campaign.

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