Ferguson's transfer policy is a worry

As we all sat back and watched Chelsea lift the Premier League and FA Cup it became clear that United need to strengthen their squad if they are to challenge the Blues next season.

For starters the midfield needs addressing. Giggs and Scholes admirably soldier on despite their age but they can no longer be expected to carry the side. Owen Hargreaves meanwhile looks unable to last ten minutes let alone a full season.

Too often last season the defence was also patched up, often with midfielders plugging the gap. While Edwin Van Der Sar, like Giggsy, is not getting any younger.

All this is before we turn to the forward line where we need another goalscorer to ease the burden on Wayne Rooney.

Given United's woes it was credit to Ferguson's managerial ability, the tenacious never-say-die attitude of the squad, as well as the genius of Wayne Rooney, that they kept up a title challenge as long as they did.

But despite these glaring deficiencies it looks like Fergie will only bring one more player in this summer. Granted United have brought in Chris Smalling and Javier Hernandez but both are relatively un-tested at the top level. Leagues and cups are decided by world class players, not squad signings. However, Hernandez will be looking to help Mexico upset the 2010 World Cup betting this summer, and a good performance in South Africa could give united fans something to look forward to.

Ferguson's revelations obviously raise questions about the state of United's finances. Rumours continue to fly around regarding the true levels of debt the club is in, though the latest figures suggest it is around the £717 million mark.

Yet we are continually fed the line that Fergie is happy with the "squad balance" and he is aware how tough it is to bring players in given the current climate.

He has a point about the state of the transfer market, many clubs are slapping an extra £10 million on their players' valuation as soon as the big clubs come sniffing around. So this could be an attempt by Fergie to cool the market and bring in players at realistic prices.

The online football betting makes Chelsea favourites to win the title next season and it will be tough to compete, not matter who Ferguson signs.

However, if we reach the big kick off next August and United have failed to address the weaknesses in the side, then a sustained challenge for honours maybe beyond even the abilities of Sir Alex.