According to a report by Football Transfers on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, former Manchester United winger Antonio Valencia believes the club still need to strengthen several positions to improve their performances and compete consistently with their Premier League rivals.

Manchester United were previously linked with Moises Caicedo during his time at Independiente del Valle. The English club were reportedly well-positioned to sign the midfielder, but complications disrupted the deal, allowing Brighton to secure his services instead.

Caicedo subsequently established himself as one of the Premier League’s outstanding midfielders at Brighton before completing a move to Chelsea in a transfer reportedly worth approximately €116 million. Since arriving at Stamford Bridge, the Ecuadorian international has become an important member of the squad.

The 24-year-old made his first start of the 2026/27 campaign during Chelsea’s convincing 5-1 victory over Bournemouth. His contract runs until 2033, and he was reportedly considered one of the club’s players who would not be available for transfer during the summer, alongside Cole Palmer, Levi Colwill, Joao Pedro and Josh Acheampong.

Speaking to Spanish newspaper AS ahead of Manchester United’s Champions League meeting with Atletico Madrid, Valencia explained that the club needed additional quality to improve its competitiveness.

“This year the team has struggled a bit. I think they still need two or three more signings for United to be able to do better,” the former winger said.

When asked which positions required reinforcement, Valencia identified midfield, central defence and the full-back areas as key priorities.

“I'd sign another midfielder. I'd bring in a player like Moises Caicedo, keeping it local,” Valencia joked, before suggesting that United should also sign another centre-back and a right or left-back.

However, signing Caicedo would be a difficult task for Manchester United, as Chelsea are unlikely to sell one of their key midfielders to a direct domestic rival. His long-term contract also gives the London club significant control over his future.

Valencia’s comments nevertheless highlight the need for United to continue assessing their squad and identify areas requiring improvement. If a move for Caicedo proves unrealistic, the club may have to explore alternative midfield options in 2027, particularly following their reported summer recruitment of Carlos Baleba, Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans.