Manchester United have been sent a stark message following a slowdown in transfer activity

Manchester United have been told they need to sign as many as seven new players to cope with the demands of the Champions League this season. The Red Devils are back in the world's premier club competition after Michael Carrick inspired an impressive revival over the second half of last season.

But while the third-placed finish was impressive and helped Carrick land the job on a permanent basis, it's been clear for some time that the squad required an overhaul. Midfielders Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans are among the players to have arrived so far, but there is still more work to be done as United aim to compete across four fronts.

Another middleman could arrive while the defence also requires attention. Former Premier League goalkeeper Shay Given reckons that at least seven more signings are required and has been surprised that United have not done more business so far.

Speaking to BOYLE Sports, who offer the latest football odds, Shay Given said: "Maybe it comes down to the financial situation at Manchester United. They have to be careful after not being in the Champions League for a few years.

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"They're back in the competition this season and if they continue to qualify, maybe they'll go heavy again in the transfer market, and United do need to do more business. I've been surprised there hasn't already been more movement from them in this transfer window.

"Their squad wasn't strong enough last season, and they've already lost a couple of players. I think they need to sign another seven players at least."

Meanwhile, Lisandro Martinez has joined United's pre-season training camp in Ireland as the last of the players to be afforded an extended break following the World Cup.

The return of Martinez, who played in Argentina's loss to Spain in the World Cup final in New Jersey on July 19, means Carrick has an almost-full complement of players in camp ahead of Wednesday's friendly against Leeds at Dublin's Croke Park.

On Sunday, England internationals Marcus Rashford and Kobbie Mainoo were among nine players to return amid continuing speculation over the former's future.

After Wednesday's match, United will head to Wroclaw, Poland for their final pre-season assignment against AC Milan and former boss Ruben Amorim.

United are hoping to add to their ranks before their Premier League opener at Hull City on August 22, while more new faces should follow before the transfer window slams shut on September 3.