Ex-PL and England boss strongly opposes Scholes’ claim on United transfer that’s “too risky”

Former Premier League and England manager Sam Allardyce has vehemently disagreed with Paul Scholes’ recent assertion that Tottenham Hotspur defender Cuti Romero would be a success at Manchester United. Scholes’ Romero demand Earlier this month, United interim head coach Michael Carrick guided the club to a sensational 2-0 victory over Tottenham at Old Trafford. Goals from Bryan Mbeumo and Bruno Fernandes were enough to secure United all three points, but the team’s job was made a little bit easier by Romero’s sending off during the opening 45 minutes. The Argentina international was given his marching orders for a reckless challenge on Casemiro, which left the Brazilian midfielder on the floor writhing in pain. Romero’s red card came off the back of a public statement, in which he questioned the Tottenham hierarchy’s ambitions. He has repeatedly criticised what he perceives as the North London side’s mediocrity, fuelling strong speculation that he will consider his future at the end of the campaign. Speaking after the win over Tottenham, Scholes said that he would love United to sign Romero. The United legend insisted that he loves Romero’s character. However, Allardyce has argued that such a transfer would be “too risky”, noting that Harry Maguire is a far more reliable figure. Allardyce opposes Scholes’ view Appearing on the No Tippy Tappy Football podcast, Allardyce was asked whether he would take Romero over Maguire. Allardyce answered, “Well, too risky. Too risky. Honestly, too risky.” “He doesn’t… Listen, if you’re a centre-half, your first priority, in respect to what Paul says, and I respect his opinion, is a defender.” “And how good are you at defending? Not how good are you at playing with the ball?” On Romero’s ball-playing ability, Allardyce explained, “That’s only an added bonus. Well, it’s, well, people are looking for that more than looking at how good they are as defenders, which is a big problem at academy level.” “You’ve got all these 30 little coaches going around saying, ‘Can he play out from the back? Can he defend?’ Like full-backs.” United are next in action on Monday when they go away to Everton. Featured image Gareth Copley via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!