“If you buy any players now it’s desperation and it won’t be good” – Patrice Evra warns Manchester United over transfer activity

Former Manchester United star Patrice Evra has claimed that the Red Devils’ late transfer window activity showcases desperation, warning that such transfers will not do them any good.

Manchester United have signed Casemiro from Real Madrid for a reported £70 million fee and are seemingly interested in £85 million-rated Ajax star, Antony. While many see their transfer activity as a step in the right direction, Evra believes that late, desperate signings will not do the club any good.

Speaking to Betfair (via Evening Standard), he said:

“If you buy any players now it's desperation and it won't be good. Those things should have been done before pre-season. Don't get me wrong, when everyone saw pre-season I can understand why [Erik] ten Hag, the staff and the board would have thought the squad looks good.

“Who are they going to bring to Manchester United and who is coming to play for United? If you have Chelsea, Liverpool, even Tottenham - a player will pick them instead of Man United.”

He continued:

“De Jong doesn't want to come to United, he'd prefer to go to Chelsea. There's a lot of noise in the papers, but we're doing the same mistakes. I'm a positive man but things don't look good. Simple.”

Five-time Champions League winner Casemiro is set to be unveiled as a Manchester United player ahead of their Premier League clash with Liverpool on Monday night (August 22).

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Casemiro could bring much-needed stability to Manchester United’s midfield

Fred and Scott McTominay are decent players, but Casemiro is arguably a couple of classes above the pair. The Brazilian defensive midfielder is an immaculate enforcer, knows how to mark the best forwards, is a vocal leader, and never shies away from a fight. The Brazil international may not be the best passer around, but he more than makes up for it with his awareness and defensive solidity.

Considering how susceptible the Red Devils’ back line has been lately, having Casemiro shielding the defense could do them a world of good. It will be interesting to see how Erik ten Hag uses Casemiro in his system, and how soon he acclimatizes to the English Premier League.