Manchester United Transfer News: Major Robert Lewandowski, Memphis Depay Rumours

Manchester United are "keen to do business" for Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski, according to Fichajes (h/t Jamie Sanderson of Metro).

Sanderson's report suggests the Red Devils have "lodged an offer" for the Polish hitman. It's indicated Bayern aren't willing to enter negotiations, but "United are not giving up and are trying to find an agreement."

Manager Louis van Gaal is likely to target a world-class striker in the summer after disappointing seasons for Robin van Persie and Radamel Falcao. Although the latter is likely to head back to Monaco on completion of his loan deal, there are no signs to suggest RvP will emulate the 26-goal Premier League campaign he enjoyed upon joining United in 2012.

Matthias Schrader/Associated Press

Lewandowski has racked up 16 goals in 27 Bundesliga appearances for Bayern this season, per WhoScored.com. He was heavily linked with United before securing a switch to the Allianz Arena, but Van Persie's initial Old Trafford dominance suggested no further goalscoring power was needed.

Squawka highlighted Lewandowski's recent form:

The former Borussia Dortmund favourite has the attributes to be a star in the Premier League. He is powerful, possesses good technical skill and, most importantly, is clinical inside the box.

Lewandowski's stride takes him beyond most centre-backs, something United's slow front-man options have struggled with this season. It makes little sense for Pep Guardiola to cash in on his prized goalscorer, though, particularly after only one season, so this speculation seems misguided.

Dmitry Lovetsky/Associated Press

More believable rumours are coming from the Netherlands, where it's been confirmed United have lodged initial contact with PSV Eindhoven over Memphis Depay, per James Ducker of The Times:

Dutch magazine Voetbal International has allegedly suggested "the transfer has been agreed and is now a done deal," as translated by Sanderson. However, Sport Witness doesn't believe this to be true:

Sky Sports provided a comparison of Depay and United's current forwards:

The youngster could go on to emulate a United legend, according to Dutch hero Ronald de Boer, per Alex Varney of talkSPORT:

"

He is one of the biggest talents in Europe. He has skill compared to a young Cristiano Ronaldo. He is very lively, technically unbelievable, very skilful, very fast, he has a great goal-scoring record, he can shoot from every distance—he has everything.

"

B/R UK's Matteo Bonetti recently provided his thoughts on what United need to become title challengers again:

While Lewandowski and Depay are viable targets for the club, only one of these transfers appears likely. Van Gaal could use his fellow Dutchman as a striker or deploy him out wide, providing United with the explosive pace they need.

Lewandowski fought hard to secure a deal with Bayern, so it seems unlikely he would be pushed through the door after a quality opening season.