Ryan Giggs believes Manchester United have dramatically reduced the scale of their rebuild under Michael Carrick and says his former club now need only 'four or five' signings rather than an overhaul of the squad.
The former United winger has hailed Carrick's impact at Old Trafford after the ex-midfielder guided the club to a third-place finish and qualification for next season's Champions League.
United looked set for another summer of major surgery when Carrick took charge, but Giggs believes the former England international has transformed the outlook by improving the players already at his disposal.
Speaking to Singaporean outlet Augustman, Giggs said: 'Michael has done an amazing job, turning the team around, getting them to third place and securing Champions League football next year.'
'Before Michael, we were thinking this summer we needed 10 new players to get to a point where we could compete for honours.'
'Now it's probably four or five because he's really gotten the best out of the players.'
'It's the sign of a good coach, when you can improve the players that you've got at your disposal.'
'I'm glad they gave him the job. I hope they give him some money to bring in new players. We're still a distance away from Manchester City and Arsenal with their strength in depth and quality.'
Giggs' comments come as United continue to be linked with a series of high-profile moves ahead of the summer transfer window.
Reports have suggested the club are willing to spend big to strengthen Carrick's squad, with Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali among the names to have been linked with a move to Old Trafford.
United have also reportedly made contact over a possible deal for West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes, while Tottenham captain Cristian Romero has been mentioned as another potential target.
There are also question marks surrounding the future of Marcus Rashford.
The England forward's future remains uncertain after spending time away from Old Trafford, with Barcelona holding an option to make his move permanent.
However, reports in Spain have suggested the Catalan giants may attempt to renegotiate the agreed fee before a decision is made.
While transfer speculation gathers pace, Giggs believes Carrick has already achieved one of the most difficult tasks facing any manager at a club the size of Manchester United: improving the players already in the building.
