Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel has namedropped Manchester United when listing top-four contenders for the upcoming Premier League season. United finished 35 points behind champions Manchester City last campaign and they also missed out on Champions League qualification.
Following their dismal campaign, United appointed Erik ten Hag as manager and the former Ajax coach has attempted to shake up their squad for the challenge ahead. As things stand, United's only new recruits are Tyrell Malacia and Christian Eriksen.
Lisandro Martinez and Frenkie de Jong are also on the radar. United have entered advanced talks with Ajax over Martinez.
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Further signings pending, Ten Hag's impact on the United squad has been apparent during the ongoing pre-season tour. And that hasn't gone unnoticed by Chelsea manager Tuchel.
He said: "I want to be ready when we play Everton [first game]. I want to win and I will demand it from myself, my team and all my players. The team will be strong.
"I'm not ready to use it as an excuse, even though it's maybe true that we are in transition. The team can focus on what makes us strong, take it step-by-step and work out how to win games."
Tuchel added: "If you look at the transfer period of Tottenham with Antonio Conte, it's maybe the strongest team they ever built. Manchester United will not give in, Arsenal will not give in - they've made two big signings already. We are aware of the situation and will do our best to be competitive."
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