Manchester United Transfer News: Buzz Surrounding Louis Van Gaal's January Plans
Manchester United were one of the busiest clubs during the summer transfer window, and following a rocky start to the 2014-15 Premier League season, January could see even more turnover at Old Trafford.
The rumour mill is already pumping out stories regarding the Red Devils, with several star players reportedly targeted by Louis van Gaal. Here's the latest transfer buzz surrounding United.
Kevin Strootman
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AS Roma have reiterated their desire to keep hold of Kevin Strootman, who has been linked with a move to Old Trafford since the start of summer. As reported by Sky Sports' Nadia Carminati, president James Pallotta became the latest to dismiss any reports, telling Sky Sports Italia:
"There has been non-stop reporting in UK newspapers about Kevin Strootman and Manchester United.
Kevin Strootman is not for sale and has never been discussed in that vein at Roma. They are wasting paper.
We consider Kevin an integral, highly valued partner in our long-term plans.
"
The Dutch midfielder has been out with a knee injury since March but should make his return to the pitch before long, and he's expected to reclaim his position in the centre of the park when he does.
Belgium's Radja Nainggolan has enjoyed a phenomenal start to the 2014-15 campaign, however, and pundits are wondering whether his emergence could lead to the Giallorossi considering any significant offers for Strootman in January.
Di Marzio's David Amoyal isn't hiding his praise of Nainggolan:
Much will depend on Strootman's form once he returns to the pitch, but while Roma have remained adamant the Dutchman is not for sale, the Italian club simply lacks the financial power to turn down a significant Red Devils' offer in January.
The Daily Star's Jack Wilson claims Van Gaal has no intention of chasing Cristiano Ronaldo if it means giving in to his reported wage demands and risk alienating his current core of stars.
According to Wilson, Ronaldo wants weekly wages of £300,000 after taxes, a number that would dwarf even the biggest salaries the club is currently paying to the likes of Radamel Falcao and Wayne Rooney.
Rather than risk those players growing upset over Ronaldo's massive wages, Van Gaal will reportedly opt not to make an offer for the Portuguese superstar and former Red Devil altogether.
The Ballon d'Or winner is one of the world's biggest stars, capable of changing the club's fortunes on the pitch and doing wonders in terms of marketing off it. Should he become available and openly demand a transfer, it's highly unlikely Van Gaal and United won't be at the front of the line for his signature.
Luke Shaw
Former United coach Rene Meulensteen told talkSPORT's Alan Brazil (via Nick Rostron-Pike) Van Gaal doesn't rate new arrival Luke Shaw, who has spent the first part of his United career on the bench.
When asked the question whether it was clear to him the new manager doesn't believe in the teenager, he said:
"Yes. It’s a big surprise for me.
He would have been informed by the club that they were putting this bid in for Shaw because he’s an up and coming player.
He’s got a good left foot and a lot of pace. He’s got a lot to learn to get to a Man United level though.
He’s a great prospect but he’s brought Rojo in, which is bad news for Shaw.
"
The deal to bring Shaw to Old Trafford was reportedly concluded before Van Gaal became the club's new manager, per Rostron-Pike, and the arrival of Marcos Rojo has left the England international at a low point in the defensive hierarchy.
The 19-year-old is still incredibly raw, despite his impressive performances in the 2013-14 season and for the England national team, and Van Gaal's reluctance to throw him to the wolves is understandable.
The Dutchman has a sterling reputation when it comes to nurturing and incorporating younger players, so expect Shaw to receive his chance before long.
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