Louis van Gaal ready to splash the cash to strengthen at Old Trafford.
Read more Manchester United transfer news.
Manchester United’s new manager, Louis van Gaal, has already been active in the transfer market this summer, spending big money on left back Luke Shaw from Southampton and Athletic Bilbao midfielder Ander Herrera.
With the club’s hierarchy having indicated that they are willing to spend, however, this duo are unlikely to be the final pieces of van Gaal’s jigsaw, with reports now linking the Dutchman with a huge swoop for four new players ahead of the Premier League’s big kick-off.
It would undoubtedly be a huge boost to United fans if van Gaal is successful in his pursuit of these four players, with their opening match against Swansea City now little more than a week away.
Mehdi Benatia (AS Roma)
United are preparing to launch a £30m raid on AS Roma, according to the Express, with Moroccan centre back Mehdi Benatia the subject of the Red Devils’ interest.
With Roma reportedly lining up a replacement in Greek defender Kostas Manolas, United have now been alerted to the availability of one of Europe’s finest centre backs.
Juan Cuadrado (Fiorentina)
Van Gaal is also reportedly keen on closing a deal for Fiorentina winger Juan Cuadrado, who could play at right wing-back in the Dutchman’s 3-5-2 system.
The Colombian is coming off the back of a fine Serie A campaign and excellent World Cup, meaning that United would have to shell out around £36m to land their man, but he would certainly represent a real statement of intent.
Thomas Vermaelen (Arsenal)
United have been linked with a move for Arsenal club captain Thomas Vermaelen all summer, but are now reported to have lodged an official £10m bid for the Belgian international.
Vermaelen is frustrated at the Emirates Stadium, having been unable to force his way back into the side past established partnership Laurent Koscielny and Per Mertesacker.
Arturo Vidal (Juventus)
Despite some doubts over the Juventus midfielder’s long-term fitness, reports suggest that United are still keen on tying up a huge £47m move for the Chilean international.
Vidal would be van Gaal’s most eye-catching signing as United boss so far and, despite United already being well-stocked with attacking midfielders, is sure to improve their prospects.