Manchester United’s transfer window closed with drama, but pundit Roy Keane once again stole the spotlight. Headlines claimed the former captain “hit the nail on the head” when he questioned United’s deadline-day strategy, even as debate continues over the details of his comments.
United’s last-minute deals under scrutiny
United wrapped up the summer by bringing in goalkeeper Senne Lammens from Royal Antwerp for €21m, finalising the move late on deadline day. The Belgian international arrives as cover and competition in goal, with manager Ruben Amorim keen to add depth. It came as fans hoped for more of a splash after a big-spending summer. United also allowed to leave Antony, Rasmus Hojlund and Jadon Sancho, developments that illustrated the change in scale at Old Trafford.
It was reported that Keane had doubts over the quality of the business they would conduct, and this idea chimes in with his opinion that United are no longer the draw that they once were. Though the direct quotes remain limited, the story reflected a wider fan frustration at a window that felt short of a marquee ending.
A theme familiar from Roy Keane
Keane has regularly criticised Man United’s recruitment in recent years, insisting the club often spends without clear direction. His past remarks about the “days of every player wanting to sign for United being over” continue to resonate. By linking his earlier warnings to deadline-day moves, outlets such as the Mirror and MEN framed his stance as a fresh critique of the club’s strategy. Whether or not he spoke directly about Lammens, his reputation for blunt assessments makes the headline believable to many fans.
Author’s opinion
Keane’s exact words on this deadline day may be unclear, but the message fits his style. He has long pressed United to raise standards, and the lack of a marquee addition keeps his point alive. For now, the Lammens deal looks sensible, yet it is hard to deny that supporters wanted more fireworks.