Former Arsenal striker Charlie Nicholas has laid into Manchester United for their underwhelming summer transfer business, and questioned why a star like Aaron Ramsdale wasn't targeted
Ruben Amorim, Manager of Manchester United, during a stadium walk around ahead of the UEFA Europa League Final 2025 between Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United at Estadio de San Mames
Ruben Amorim and Manchester United's transfer approach has been lambasted
(Image: Getty)
Charlie Nicholas has criticised Manchester United for their transfer dealings this summer, declaring that new Arsenal signing Christian Norgaard and Newcastle recruit Aaron Ramsdale should have been pursued.
So far in the transfer window, Ruben Amorim's side have bolstered their attack with the signings of Matheus Cunha for £62.5million and Bryan Mbeumo for £65m, alongside the acquisition of teenage left-back Diego Leon. With a striker seemingly next up, Benjamin Sesko, who is also eyed by Newcastle, tops the priority list for the Red Devils.
However, Nicholas, with over 175 appearances for Arsenal under his belt, has condemned United's recruitment strategy, questioning why they didn't consider options like Ramsdale.
"There are a lot of players out there, a whole list who I think would be better than what Manchester United currently have," Nicholas told Sky Bet. "I just don't know where they see themselves going."
Nicholas highlighted two players who have made moves this summer at reasonable prices: Norgaard, who joined Arsenal in July for £12m, and Ramsdale, who moved to Newcastle on loan from Southampton last week, reports the Mirror.
"If I was Manchester United, why didn't they go in for Christian Norgaard? It looks as if they've waited for two high-profile players," Nicholas remarked.
New signing Christian Norgaard with (L) Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta and (R) Sporting Director Andrea Berta
Norgaard arrived at the Emirates for £12m(Image: Getty)
"But I look at them and I think, why are not adding more players like Norgaard, or players who have played well at Bournemouth and Newcastle, you could disrupt things and see who's interested.
"There are so many pillars I just can't understand, the whole lack of authority defensively and what is the current situation with the goalkeeper?
"Why don't they go and get Aaron Ramsdale? He's qualified, he knows the circuit, he's English, experienced, and competitive. I know Ramsdale hasn't won too much, but it's not far off what United have won.
"I just don't see how they see what an upgrade means. I don't see Manchester United fans showing one bit of excitement as it stands right now, and it's getting close for them to get aggressive towards the club again."
Bringing in a fresh face between the sticks seems to be on the Old Trafford agenda this summer following Andre Onana's disappointing performances last season.
Aaron Ramsdale poses for photos in dressing room after signing with Newcastle United
Ramsdale has joined the Magpies on an initial loan deal
Aston Villa's No. 1 Emi Martinez appears set to depart Villa Park, though a United loan bid for the Argentine was supposedly turned down last month, and it is thought interest has dwindled.
Manager Amorim was questioned about the possibility of recruiting a new shot-stopper before the transfer deadline, and refused to dismiss the idea.
"To hope is a strong word," Amorim replied when questioned about his aspirations to recruit a new goalkeeper or forward. "We are always looking to improve the team. And we have some characteristics that we would like to have. But again, it depends on the market. It depends on the sales. We'll see."