Former Manchester United striker makes Harry Kane and Declan Rice prediction

Former Manchester United striker Andy Cole believes signing Harry Kane and Declan Rice will still not be enough for the Reds to challenge rivals Manchester City next season.

MEN Sport understands Kane is a priority target for United as they look to strengthen their forward options. However, the Reds are pessimistic about their chances of signing him and are working under the assumption Tottenham Hotspur will not sell.

Meanwhile, Rice has been linked with a move to Old Trafford previously but the asking price has been deemed too high. However, it's again been suggested United could enter the race for his signature after West Ham confirmed on Thursday their captain would be leaving this summer.

Should Erik ten Hag add both men to his squad, they would no doubt be a stronger outfit. But according to Cole, this would not be enough to battle for the Premier League title.

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Speaking to BoyleSports about Champions League Final Odds, the ex-striker admitted: "The instant success route of the transfer strategy will catch up with you eventually because you'll need to replace those older players. If Manchester United buy Kane and someone like Declan Rice, they still wouldn't be able to win the league anyway because the point gap between Manchester City is too big.

"Two players can improve your team, but they won't make you overtake Manchester City. Everyone was talking about Arsenal winning the league this season and they folded because Manchester City are the better team and have the better squad."

A Manchester Evening News special souvenir edition - Fergie's First - charts United's 1992/93 title-winning campaign and you can get your hands on one here

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