GRAEME SOUNESS claims comments from Christian Eriksen about Rasmus Hojlund were a warning sign before the forward made his Manchester United debut.
Erik ten Hag signed the Danish attacker, 20, for £72million in the summer.
He scored five goals in six games for the Red Devils in the Champions League, only for the team to finish bottom of their group.
But Hojlund is still yet to hit the back of the net in 12 Premier League games.
And Liverpool legend Souness, 70, has questioned remarks from Man Utd midfielder Eriksen - who was asked about compatriot Hojlund shortly after he arrived at Old Trafford.
In August, Eriksen said: "He’s a guy who holds his ground. He doesn’t back down from anything.
"He’s really a front-foot guy, who is aggressive and really attack-minded. But, at the same time, a nice guy outside of football."
Referencing those comments in an article for The Mail, Souness said: "He [Hojlund] cost £72million in the summer and still hasn’t scored in the league.
"I go back to when his fellow Dane, Christian Eriksen, was asked about him and all he said was that he’s quick and very aggressive.
"I thought that was a tell-tale sign, because someone who knows him should have been kinder and far more complimentary."
Hojlund scored 10 times in 34 appearances during his one season with Atalanta.
But his lack of goals since joining Man Utd has coincided with a difficult period for Ten Hag's side.
The Red Devils have lost seven of their opening 16 Premier League games, while also suffering exits in the Carabao Cup and Champions League.
They have also won just one of their last five matches in all competitions ahead of a trip to Liverpool on Sunday.