According to a report by Manchester Evening News on Thursday November 5, 2026, Manchester United legend Peter Schmeichel has expressed his disappointment with the club's summer transfer business, insisting that two defenders who joined Premier League rivals would have been ideal signings for the Red Devils.

United have struggled with defensive problems this season, with injuries exposing the lack of depth in Michael Carrick's squad. The situation has left the manager short of options, forcing him to use players outside their natural positions to fill gaps in the backline.

Ayden Heaven has had to feature at left-back, while Leny Yoro has been deployed on the opposite side of defence. Meanwhile, Lisandro Martinez and Harry Maguire are approaching the final stages of their contracts, and Matthijs de Ligt's availability has also been a concern.

With those problems in mind, Schmeichel believes United missed an opportunity to strengthen their defence during the summer transfer window.

The former goalkeeper specifically named Jeremy Jacquet and Jan Paul van Hecke as two players who could have made a significant difference at Old Trafford.

Jacquet joined Liverpool, while Van Hecke left Brighton to sign for Tottenham. Both defenders have attracted attention with their performances, leaving Schmeichel wondering why United did not make a move for either player.

Speaking about the club's recruitment, Schmeichel said: "I'd like to see some defenders coming in in January. That would be a godsend. There was a lot of defenders in the summer I thought would be well suited for Manchester United.

"We see one gone to Liverpool, Jacquet. I mean, he would have been fantastic for this football club. I thought that Van Hecke, who left Brighton to Tottenham, should have been someone that we should have looked at."

Schmeichel's comments underline the need for United to address their defensive weaknesses when the January transfer window opens.

The former Manchester United captain also mentioned Luka Vuskovic, who joined Brighton from Tottenham and has impressed despite his young age.

United's defensive difficulties have become a major concern for Carrick, particularly with the club struggling to maintain consistency amid a series of injury problems.

The Red Devils are also facing the possibility of losing important players in the coming months, making the need for fresh defensive options even more pressing.

Schmeichel believes the club should have been more proactive in the summer, especially given the quality of defenders available in the market.

Manchester United's disappointing start to the season has also raised questions about the club's transfer strategy. Missing out on Champions League qualification could have serious financial consequences, potentially making it even more difficult to compete for top players in future windows.

For now, United will have to consider their options ahead of January, with Schmeichel making it clear that strengthening the defence should be among their biggest priorities.