Manchester United Transfer News: Louis van Gaal Demands Arjen Robben Deal

Louis van Gaal has reportedly told Manchester United to do "everything they can" to sign Arjen Robben, reported by Ben Jefferson of the Express.

The Red Devils boss is allegedly preparing a bid in the region of £24 million for Bayern Munich's match-winning Dutchman. Van Gaal worked with Robben in Bavaria and during his stint as Netherlands boss, helping Robben to post some memorable performances at the 2014 World Cup.

Jefferson's article indicates Bayern have "no intention" of cashing in on the 30-year-old, although they "could change their stance if Robben publicly states his desire to move on."

Stuart Franklin/Getty Images

Robben rebuffed United's approach in the summer, but Van Gaal has acknowledged "he is always welcome" to join, reported by Jeremy Wilson of the Daily Telegraph.

The skillful winger has netted eight goals and four assists in 14 appearances this season, per WhoScored.com, and would provide United with a world-class alternative to Angel Di Maria on the wing.

Di Maria has struggled to show his best form when playing wide for United. He appears far more suited to a central role in England, allowing him to drive the team forward and also help out defensively. The Argentinian has developed into an extremely hard-working contributor over the last couple of seasons and is often seen clearing up on the edge of United's box.

Giuseppe Bellini/Getty Images

Robben isn't so disciplined, but he has proved lethal alongside Robin van Persie in the Dutch setup over the years. He's certainly a more attractive prospect than Nani, despite the Portuguese player's resurgence of form during his loan with Sporting Lisbon.

Duncan Castles of Goal.com reports there is "no chance" of Nani returning before the end of the season. The 28-year-old has netted six goals for Sporting this season—four of which have come in the Champions League, per WhoScored.com—but United supporters will surely have their opinions split when he returns at the end of the campaign.

Nani has rarely hit his potential at Old Trafford and could be used to fund someone of Robben's ilk.

Carlos Rodrigues/Getty Images

Van Gaal is said to have received a boost in his pursuit of Benfica midfielder Enzo Perez. Superdeporte, reported by talkSPORT, suggests United are "frontrunners" for his signature due to Valencia's inability to meet his cost. The Spanish club have recently received the millions of new owner Peter Lim, meaning they can be expected to invest heavily over the coming years.

B/R UK guest columnist Guillem Balague believes a defensive investment in the shape of Diego Godin would be an excellent move for United:

Van Gaal undoubtedly needs to secure additions across the board, but he may be looking to wait until the summer to make the bulk of his acquisitions.

This is a manager who is intent on instilling his "philosophy" into all who arrive, a difficult prospect during the January transfer window. However, someone like Robben—who is used to playing under the famous authoritarian—possesses the experience needed to make an instant impact.