'No better than Maguire' - Man Utd legend slams Ten Hag's targets

Tom Weber

• Updated: 25 Jan 2024 10:30 GMT
• 4 min read

Manchester United legend Andy Cole is not impressed by the defenders his former club are linked with.

The Red Devils are keen on making some high-profile defensive reinforcements. While January transfers are unlikely, a sign that Erik ten Hag has already thrown the towel in this season, the summer could be quite different.

Thanks to the incoming funds of Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Man Utd are plotting a major defensive overhaul in the summer, with players such as Victor Lindelof and Harry Maguire potentially sacrificed to make room for big-name stars such as Jean-Clair Todibo, Matthijs de Ligt and Jarrad Branthwaite.

Indeed, De Ligt would be quite a typical Ten Hag signing. The two Dutchmen worked together at Ajax and the 24-year-old defender is keen on departing Bayern Munich in the next transfer window, due to being underutilised by head coach Thomas Tuchel, potentially paving the way for the Red Devils to make a move.

Cole not impressed

However, Man Utd legend Andy Cole is not convinced that the likes of De Ligt and Branthwaite have what it takes to really strengthen the Old Trafford club. Asked by Betfred if he would be worried about buying De Ligt in light of his struggles at Juventus and Bayern, Cole responded in the affirmative

“Yes, it would," he said, "because if he’s had tough times at both Juventus and Bayern Munich, then how can you suggest that he will be a success at Manchester United? Matthijs is another player that’s played for Erik ten Hag and the majority of signings that Erik’s made during his time at the club have been players that he’s managed previously."

"The Premier League is a totally different league and the ocean is very, very big when it comes to players. How many other managers in the Premier League have the same approach to transfers? Especially at the top, top level. This is probably why there’s speculation suggesting that INEOS are going to restrict his influence over transfers. I think it’s a good thing to be fair because Manchester United can now cast their net wider.”

Regarding Branthwaite, Cole said: “He’s done really well for Everton this season. When you’re performing for a struggling side and people are talking about your performances in a positive light, then you must be playing very well. However, the question is, is he better than Harry Maguire?"

"Harry Maguire since he’s come back into Manchester United’s team this season has played like the Harry Maguire we saw at Leicester City. Take away Jarrad’s age, is he better than Harry Maguire? Will he improve Manchester United?"

"These are the questions that you need to ask yourself as a prospective buyer...Manchester United need to buy players that improve their side because if they continue to buy players of a similar standard to what they’ve already got, then they’re not going to move forward.”