Dutch star wanted at Old Trafford despite long-term injury.
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Louis van Gaal will make signing Roma midfielder Kevin Strootman his top priority when he switches to Manchester United mode this summer, according to the Daily Express.
Van Gaal was announced as United’s new manager last month, but he is currently focused on leading the Dutch national team at the World Cup.
Strootman has represented the Netherlands 25 times at senior level, but he is not going to Brazil 2014 because of a knee problem.
The 24-year-old suffered the injury in March and it is expected to keep him out of action until October.
However, Van Gaal rates Strootman extremely highly and has sanctioned a £25m bid for the former PSV Eindhoven star.
Before getting injured, Strootman made 25 Serie A appearances this season, scoring five goals and providing six assists.
He is an all-round midfielder. His impressive tackling skills and strong concentration make him highly competent defensively, while his keen eye for a through pass make him an effective attacker.
Strootman, who joined Roma from PSV in a £16m move in July 2013, is said to be close friends with Robin van Persie.
Fellow Dutchman Van Persie is expected to become Man United’s new captain.
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