Paul Scholes fears that Manchester United can only finish as high as sixth place in the Premier League this campaign if Erik ten Hag does not get his way in the transfer market before the window closes.
Having stepped into the Old Trafford dugout this summer, former Ajax manager Ten Hag has signed Tyrell Malacia, Christian Eriksen and Lisandro Martinez as part of his much-needed rebuild. However, the one name Ten Hag really wants to bring in remains Barcelona playmaker Frenkie de Jong as his long-winded transfer saga continues.
Discussions over a potential swoop for De Jong date back right to Ten Hag's arrival in Manchester but there has yet to be a breakthrough despite the two clubs agreeing on a fee for his signature. For now, though, De Jong remains at Barcelona and United legend Scholes was left calling for his old club to bring in more quality as United slipped to defeat in their first game under Ten Hag against Brighton on Sunday afternoon.
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Pascal Gross did the damage with two goals in a 2-1 Brighton victory at Old Trafford and the result had former United player Scholes fearing what might happen this season. United finished sixth in the Premier League standings last term, and Scholes is already fearful that they won't fare any better under Ten Hag this campaign.
Speaking to Premier League Productions, he said: "It's very similar to what happened at the end of last season. Big performance from Brighton, though.
"Erik ten Hag has got a big job on his hands. He needs players, he needs additions who have got better quality. The way they played on Sunday, sixth is the highest they can finish this season."
Scholes added: "It was a shocking start and the first half overall was shambolic. The signs were there right from the start and the real quality in the middle of the pitch was poor."
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