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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
Sport
David Byrom

Rio Ferdinand gives brutal assessment of Manchester United transfer mistakes

Rio Ferdinand says Manchester United have turned the corner in the transfer market after years of overspending on players who were not good enough.

Many high-profile signings ultimately failed to leave a mark at Old Trafford but United have been more impressive in the market in recent times.

Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Harry Maguire and Bruno Fernandes have all made significant impacts at United after joining the club in the last two transfer windows.

It has led to a sensational run of form from the Reds that has helped them challenge for the top four.

Speaking on BT Sport, Ferdinand did not hold back in his assessment of previous transfer windows for United but said he was hopeful of things being different now.

"Recruitment is vital," he said.

"You look at any team who is trying to win trophies or get into that top echelon of teams, they have to recruit well.

"Manchester United, I'm sure, will admit that in years gone by, that's where they've struggled.

"They've let themselves down, they've brought and spent ridiculous money on players and probably not the right players for the club.

"Now it seems more measured and Ole really has got his finger on the pulse in what he wants to improve his team.

"You can see Maguire's come in, you can baulk at the figure, but it's the second-best defensive record in the league.

"The forwards now are starting to perform and Martial is one of the three forwards, with Bruno Fernandes behind him, that are really thriving under Ole at the moment.

"It's looking really good but there's still room for improvement, I'm sure."

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