Former Manchester United striker Teddy Sheringham has questioned the club’s decision to sign Belgian midfielder Youri Tielemans, saying the 29-year-old is not the type of player capable of restoring the club to its former heights.

Tielemans joined Manchester United from Aston Villa in July in a deal reportedly worth £35 million and is expected to play a key role in Michael Carrick’s squad following Casemiro’s departure.

However, Sheringham believes United missed the opportunity to recruit a younger, top-quality midfielder during the summer transfer window.

Speaking to MetBonus via Metro, the former England international said Manchester United must be willing to invest in elite young talent if they hope to compete with Europe’s biggest clubs.

“Manchester United have already lost their chance to acquire the additional midfielder they required because the top players have already been signed,” Sheringham said. “To get the best players, you have to be prepared to spend.”

The former United forward, who was part of the club’s 1998-99 treble-winning team, argued that Tielemans is unlikely to raise standards at Old Trafford.

“Will Youri Tielemans change the perception of the club or demand higher standards to bring Manchester United back to greatness? No. He will only maintain the status quo, and that’s not enough for a club of Manchester United’s stature,” he added.

Tielemans arrives at Old Trafford after making 134 appearances for Aston Villa, where he scored 10 goals and provided 25 assists under Unai Emery.

The Belgium international, who captained his country at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, is expected to be one of United’s experienced midfield leaders this season.