Chelsea legend Gianfranco Zola isn't surprised by Manchester United's mega buying spree.
For the first time, combined spending by English clubs topped the one billion euros mark (£800.5million).
Of those, Manchester United spent the heaviest, with their £157million new signings including club record £59.7million transfer Angel di Maria.
Zola believes United had to play catch-up but is unsure whether it will pay off.
The Italian, 48, said: "Only time will tell. Obviously the intentions are good, they know the competition in this country is big.
"They wanted to make sure they had the quality in the squad to face the challenge.
"Manchester United want to make sure they are competitive in the next few years.
"The potential is there but football can be affected by many things. I hope for Manchester it will go well."
