Manchester United Transfer News: Kevin Strootman Bid Readied, Diego Godin Latest

Louis van Gaal is reportedly ready to test Roma's resolve to keep Kevin Strootman in January, such is his need for midfield reinforcements.

That's the line from Calciomercato (h/t Aaron Flanagan of the Mirror). Flanagan's translation suggests Van Gaal is preparing an "opening bid" for the winter transfer window in what could turn out to be a difficult negotiation process for the Red Devils.

Charles Perrin of the Daily Express believes Strootman's future could be impacted by Roma's progression, or lack thereof, through the Champions League. The Italian side will be eliminated if they lose to Manchester City on Wednesday, a conclusion which would see the club miss out on much of the competition's rich financial rewards.

Paolo Bruno/Getty Images

Strootman is yet to hit full stride after eight months out. Rudi Garcia has eased the controlling midfielder back into action, handing Strootman his first start of the season during the recent 2-2 draw with Sassuolo. He was off the pace, making just one tackle and completing 77 percent of his passes, per WhoScored.com.

Although it may be wise for Van Gaal to monitor the 24-year-old's return and fitness before confirming a deal in the summer, it certainly doesn't hurt to lay the groundwork with an initial offer.

United's midfield appeared particularly lightweight during the recent 2-1 win over Southampton. Only Robin van Persie's finishing prowess spared Van Gaal's men on Monday night in a match which saw the team constantly surrender possession all over the pitch. Marouane Fellaini, Juan Mata and Ander Herrera all failed to escape the Saints' pressing tactics, leaving United spineless in the centre.

Mike Hewitt/Getty Images

Van Gaal made his feelings known after the match, per United's official Twitter account:

The side have won six consecutive games since Michael Carrick's return to fitness, a player whose style isn't too far away from that of Strootman. Carrick is nine years older, however, suggesting the Dutchman could be his long-term replacement in the Old Trafford lineup.

Strootman's qualities are highlighted below:

Van Gaal continues to be forced into defensive changes—partly through an unprecedented run of injuries, partly through poor form—meaning he is expected to strengthen with reinforcements in January.

David Wright of the Express indicates a £16 million bid for Diego Godin was on the horizon, a fee now blown out of the water due to Atletico Madrid's alleged valuation of £28.5 million. This is Godin's buyout clause, ensuring United have little wiggle room if La Liga's champions don't wish to negotiate.

United continue to stutter toward victories, but there's an urgent need for significant improvements to be made.

Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno/Getty Images

The current squad will struggle to maintain third and could use a handful of world-class additions to ensure Champions League qualification is achieved. Strootman's transfer may be a long way off just yet, but a January bid may signal exactly what's to come for United.