Roy Keane has raised doubts over Manchester United’s decision to sign Mason Mount and suggests the Chelsea midfielder would not improve Erik ten Hag’s side.

When asked who could be Manchester City’s closest title challengers next season, Keane told Sky Sports: “I hope it’s from United, obviously depending on the takeover, depending on recruitment, they need a world-class striker, you’d hope to think United could challenge them [City] next year, but it’s going to be very, very difficult because City are brilliant and they’ve got a great, great manager.

“I wouldn’t be so sure about Mount.

“They’ve been linked with lots of players but the one who would excite you is Kane.”

Asked why he has doubts over Mount, Keane replied: “He’s gone off the boil a little bit.

“I know he can bounce back and he’s got qualities, I was raving about him a few years ago but he’s just gone missing this last year or two, again, one or two injuries, the fact he can’t get in a bad Chelsea team.

“I wouldn’t be hanging my hat too much on him, in terms of improving United and closing the gap, I think he’s a good player but would be improve Man United? I’m not so sure.

“I think Rice would, I think Rice would be a decent signing. But in terms of the excitement and a goalscorer, you’d go all in for Kane but can you see Spurs selling to Man United? Very, very difficult.”