Following a flurry of reports this weekend, Manchester United’s new Manager, Louis van Gaal refused to confirm the possible signing of Argentine attacking mid-fielder, Angel Di Maria. Meanwhile, Di Maria appeared late Sunday at Real Madrid’s training session to say his good-byes.
Van Gaal is looking to make big changes following his arrival in May. If the Di Maria transfer were finalized for the rumoured £63.9 million, it would break the £50 million British record for the highest transfer to a British club, making them the biggest spenders in Europe, spending an estimated £170 million. Reports are that Di Maria would don the #7 jersey, worn in the past by David Beckham, George Best, and Eric Contana.
In a post-match press conference following a 1-1 draw to Sunderland last week, van Gaal said, “I cannot say anything about transfers and you have to understand that.” The 20-time English Champions failed to attract the top names of Robben, Muller, Reus, and Hummels this summer, in the wake of a dismal season that saw the early departure of Manager David Moyes.
The rumour is getting a 9 out of 10 after being reinforced by such news outlets as the Telegraph, and Eurosport, while the Mirror reported today that Di Maria has already arrived in Manchester for a medical.
The Di Maria transfer would be a welcomed headway from Manchester United fans that have witnessed a downward spiral. Finishing 7th last year in the English Premier League, it is the first time in nearly a decade since the club has not qualified for the Champions League. Their 2014-2015-season opener did not bode well either, losing for the first time at home in an opener since 1972 in a 1-2 final against Swansea City.
Though they retain Robin van Persie and Wayne Rooney as forwards, the squad continues to lack in defense and midfielders, missing the speed and ability to move the ball forward to allow their star forwards to work their magic. This was evident during their draw last match.
The club recently signed Di Maria’s compatriot, Marcos Rojo, following his success in the World Cup, as well as the defender Luke Shaw, and the midfielder Ander Herrera. Unfortunately, there are complications. Rojo was not available to play Sunday due to waiting for his work permit, while Shaw is out for 4-weeks due to a hamstring injury and Herrera just suffered an ankle injury in training.
The squad is missing a key midfielder, as reports this weekend mention the club is eyeing Chilean Arturo Vidal. Though they had just announced signing Ander Herrera, the addition of Vidal and Di Maria would allow them to work as a versatile contingent. The trio would be enforcing an improved defense with the talented English Defender Shaw in the line up, along with Rojo and Jones. Official announcement is expected this week.
