Louis van Gaal Admits Striker Problem

Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal has admitted their lack of strikers is a problem, but hinted new signing Memphis Depay may play up front.

Wayne Rooney and James Wilson could be the only strikers on United's summer tour, with Robin van Persie's future unclear and Javier Hernandez injured.

"I have to see how we solve this problem," said Van Gaal.

United have been linked with several strikers, but Van Gaal says he will not buy for the sake of it.

Harry Kane, Edinson Cavani and Thomas Muller are among the forwards who have been linked with a move to Old Trafford.

Van Gaal said on Friday that Torino defender Matteo Darmian will have a medical before his move to United.

United choose not to make Radamel Falcao's stay permanent after the Colombian spent last season on loan at Old Trafford.

Turkish side Fenerbahce confirmed on Thursday they are in talks to sign Dutch striker Van Persie while Hernandez, who spent last season on loan at Real Madrid, has fractured his collarbone.

Dutch international Depay, who Van Gaal signed for £31m, is primarily a winger but can play a central role.

"It is also one of the reasons that we have bought Memphis because maybe you remember that he has played in the striker's position also in the Dutch team," said Van Gaal.

Van Persie, 31, moved to Old Trafford from Arsenal for £24m in 2012 and scored 26 goals in the Premier League as United won the title in 2012-13.

But the Dutchman, who has one year left on his contract, has struggled with injury and scored 10 goals last season.

Fenebahce tweeted on Thursday to say talks with the Van Persie had begun but Van Gaal refused to be drawn on the move.

"When we feel we can say he is gone, you shall hear it from Manchester United. We don't have the feeling yet."

Goalkeeper David De Gea has been linked with a move to Real Madrid.

But Van Gaal says he expects the Spain international, who has one year remaining on his contract, to join United on their pre-season tour of the United States which they leave for on Monday.

He said: "I think he is a very professional player and he showed fantastic attitude until now."

Depay, 21, signed a four-year contract at United, having played under Van Gaal for the Dutch national team that came third at the 2014 World Cup.

Last season Depay finished the season as Eredivisie's top scorer with 22 goals as PSV secured their first Dutch title since 2008.

Van Gaal added: "He is one of the greatest talents of his age. We have to wait and see which position he can give the greatest benefit to the team. He learns very quickly and is full of confidence."

Credit: BBC Sport