How Louis Van Gaal’s Old Trafford side could line-up for the coming season if he manages to land his top targets.
Goalkeeper: David de Gea
As one of Man United’s only consistent performers in 2013/14, and a player who has come on leaps and bounds since his early fumblings at Old Trafford, the Spanish international keeper gets to keep his spot between the sticks.
Left-Back: Luke Shaw
Man United spent a massive sum, £27m, to bring in the teenager from Southampton and he may well be the ideal long term replacement for French veteran Patrice Evra. However that price-tag may end up being something of a millstone around his neck if he fails to make an immediate impact.
Centre-Back: Mats Hummels (Borussia Dortmund)
A £30m target and arguably one of the best in the business and a player who has been strongly linked with a Westfalenstadion exit and a player firmly on Louis van Gaal’s wish-list. The German is perhaps the perfect replacement for Inter Milan bound battler Nemanja Vidic.
Centre-Back: Mehdi Benatia (AS Roma)
Given that Jonny Evans started less than half of Man United’s Premier League fixtures last term and neither Phil Jones of Chris Smalling impressed in a central defensive role, there is perhaps a real need to invest heavily in TWO central defenders and French born Moroccan international Benatia is certainly a player in form. The experienced no-nonsense performer had a wonderful debut campaign at the Stadio Olimpico last term.
Right-Back: Dani Alves (Barcelona)
Experienced Brazilian is said to be on his way out at the Nou Camp and could offer Louis van Gaal some much needed quality at right-back and would be a far better man for the job than the likes of Rafael and Chris Smalling. Such a move would be something of a statement of intent though the lack of Champions League action could be an obstacle.
Defensive Midfielder: Nigel de Jong (AC Milan)
Man United lack an out and out defensive midfielder and though the tough tackling Dutchman has a previous affiliation with Man City he is a player who has bags of experience and not a player that would cost the earth. Louis van Gaal knows the enforcer well and should consider welcoming him in.
Central Midfielder: Ander Herrera
Summer signing who has really impressed in pre-season, already weighing in with countless assists, the stylish Spaniard should have earned his first senior national team cap before too long. Should offer a seamless link between midfield and attack.
Right Attacker: Juan Mata
It’s fair to say that the former Chelsea man is yet to get into gear since his January move to Old Trafford but one senses that the Spanish international will really enjoy himself under the tutelage of Louis van Gaal. Expect assists and goals by the bucket-load.
Left Attacker: Angel di Maria (Real Madrid)
It will take a club record fee to land the Argentine but by all accounts PSG have pulled out of the race and this may leave Man United in the clear to bring in a truly awesome winger, and a player who offers so much more than Ashley Young, Nani and Luis Antonio Valencia.
Supporting striker: Wayne Rooney
Expect the England man to slot in behind the lead striker and make a real impact under Louis Van Gaal, having finished last term as Man United’s leading goal-scorer and top assist-maker. There has been a great deal of speculation as to his future under the Dutch boss but we believe the Old Trafford star will be happy to work under such an accomplished manager.
Forward: Robin Van Persie
Expect the Dutchman to captain the side under his former national team coach and one can see Robin Van Persie moving into full goal machine mode in 2014/15. Van Gaal will hope the former Arsenal man can steer clear of injury and is fully fit after a long World Cup campaign as the Premier League season appears on the horizon.
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