Louis van Gaal established himself as a viral sensation after a memorable speech at Manchester United’s end of season awards bash.
The Dutchman was in bullish mood as he stood on stage assessing United’s performance over the course of the 2014-15 season, a campaign in which the Red Devils have established themselves back amongst Europe’s elite with a top four finish confirmed.
With van Gaal having spent close to £150million last summer, whilst also completing the £25million capture of Memphis Depay from PSV already, United look set to splash out further on some of Europe’s top talent in the hope of creating a squad capable of challenging for the top honours at home and abroad next term.
Here we have identified five players that could well turn van Gaal’s side into Champions League winners.
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Click on Louis van Gaal to reveal 5 players to turn Manchester United in to Champions League winners
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Kevin Strootman
With Michael Carrick struggling for fitness as he reaches the end of his career, a new top class midfielder will be considered a priority for United this summer.
Roma’s Kevin Strootman has long been linked with a move to Old Trafford, and some reports suggest a deal is all but agreed for the Dutchman.
Strootman has finally overcome his injury problems, and is the ideal man to sit in that defensive midfield role, either alongside Carrick or his fellow countryman Daley Blind.
Edinson Cavani
United were thrilled to complete the signing of one world class South American striker last summer, when Radamel Falcao opted for a loan switch to Old Trafford on deadline day.
The Colombian has failed to settle in England however, and has managed just four goals all season.
PSG’s Edinson Cavani is said to be eyeing a move to the Premier League in the summer, and United are one of the few clubs capable of coughing up the £50million asking price, as well as meeting the Uruguayan’s wage demands.
Mats Hummels
It has been a season to forget for Borussia Dortmund and their captain Mats Hummels. However, that has not prevented Manchester United from registering a firm interest in the German international.
The World Cup winner remains a class act, and United are in need of a natural leader at the back, with Phil Jones, Chris Smalling and Jonny Evans all struggling at various points of the campaign.
The fact Jurgen Klopp is set to leave the Bundesliga giants this summer means United’s pursuit of Hummels has just got a whole lot easier.
Petr Cech
United fans are praying David De Gea is still at Old Trafford by the time the new season kicks off, but as the weeks go by it is seeming less and less likely.
Real Madrid are reportedly eyeing the Spanish goalkeeper as a top transfer target this summer, and should he leave it is vital United secure a world class replacement.
No player has been more important to the Red Devils over the past two seasons than De Gea, and perhaps only Chelsea’s Petr Cech would be considered a worthy replacement.
The 32-year-old has been one of the best in Europe for more than decade, and is said to be looking for a move in the summer having lost his place to Thibaut Courtois at Stamford Bridge this season.
Gareth Bale
It has been a season to forget for the most expensive player in world football, yet that has not prevented Manchester United from registering a firm interest Real Madrid winger Gareth Bale.
The former Tottenham man is still adored and respected in English football, more than for what can be said of him in the Spanish capital.
Bale has come under fire from Madrid fans all season for some below par performances, and the Wales international is said to be desperate to return to England in the summer – with United being one of the few clubs capable of affording him.
