Manchester United Transfer News: Major Edinson Cavani, Robin Van Persie Rumours

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has deemed Robin van Persie "surplus to requirements," according to Jeremy Cross of the Daily Star.

This story is also covered by David McDonnell of the Mirror, who suggests the Dutch striker is "set to be offloaded." Interestingly, McDonnell indicates Paris Saint-Germain forward Edinson Cavani is "understood to be at the top of Van Gaal's wanted list."

Van Persie has endured a difficult season, one defined by poor form and injuries. Unfortunately for him, since dropping out of the side due to ligament damage, per McDonnell, United have played their best football of the season.

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Highlights include wins against Tottenham and Liverpool, both of which have coincided with Wayne Rooney moving back up front.

Despite his frustrating play, Van Persie has scored 10 in 24 Premier League matches, per WhoScored.com. This isn't a terrible total by any means, but it does summarise his general loss of form since the retirement of Sir Alex Ferguson. RvP struck 26 during his title-winning debut season, and with just 12 last year, is now looking like a middling striking rather than a world-class one.

John Brewin of ESPN FC joked about Van Persie's poor form:

One of his main problems is playing with his back to goal. All season Van Persie has received the ball to feet while facing away from the opposition's sticks. He will typically lay the ball off and struggle to move quick enough up the pitch to receive a return pass. Like Radamel Falcao, his inability to stretch the opposition's defence has blunted United's play.

Rooney isn't the outright quickest of strikers, but as shown prior to Ander Herrera's second goal against Aston Villa on Saturday, his determination and willingness to win the ball puts defenders onto the back foot. His goal was also mightily impressive, as are his recent stats, per the Premier League:

Cavani isn't too dissimilar and could represent a smart option for the club, particularly if he is utilised through the middle. His qualities are highlighted below:

The Uruguayan has netted eight in 28 Ligue 1 appearances this campaign, per WhoScored, but continues to be played wide in Laurent Blanc's 4-3-3. He could offer United a hard-working, aerially dominant presence up front. A combination of Cavani and Rooney would certainly make for interesting viewing due to their combative styles.

At the age of 31 and heading into his last contracted year, it's difficult to suggest Van Persie is going to find his full rhythm once more. He has been symbolic of United's frustrations this season, even more so now Van Gaal's men are performing well without him.

Cavani could become the centre-piece of this United project. The Red Devils need to continue spending well and landing top talent, particularly if they secure a Champions League spot. Van Gaal has no time to carry passengers, even if it's his Dutch colleague and long-time friend.