Such is the intensity of speculation surrounding Louis van Gaal as Manchester United’s next manager that few other contenders are actually being spoken of in relation to the job any more.
There is still a contingent that would like to see Ryan Giggs and the class of ’92 take the helm on a permanent basis.
But all other bets seem to be off as the Dutchman could be unveiled as Manchester United’s new manager as early as next week.
Of course, even before David Moyes was sacked, there was intense speculation about which players Manchester United will bring this summer and a short list of talent seemingly drawn up.
But Louis van Gaal is clearly the sort of guy who will want to hand pick his own players – he won’t want to be handed an existing shortlist and asked to choose from it.
His success over the years has come from knowing exactly what he wants and that will surely be the case with his summer targets for Manchester United. So which reported deals could be in danger with the Dutchman now coming in?
Luke Shaw – there was heavy speculation, even from the broadsheets, about Luke Shaw being on his way to Manchester United this summer, after the club reportedly beat off competition from Chelsea. But will van Gaal feel as strongly about spending 30 million on Shaw as those before him?
He must be well aware of the player and we would have to say that it’s a no-brainer signing. Manchester United are desperate for a new left back and Shaw ticks all the boxes. van Gaal is also known as a manager who loves to encourage youth.
Edinson Cavani – another player around whom there has been much speculation in relation to a summer move to Manchester United. Again van Gaal must be an admirer of the player but may well wish to bring in a forward of his own liking. Thomas Muller has been mentioned by the media but says he wants to stay at Munich for now.
Marco Reus – some have reported that talks have already begun between Manchester United and Dortmund for the signature of the player. But would this be with the knowledge of van Gaal? Would he want the player? He may wish to bring in a winger of his own choosing, such as Arjen Robben. But they do play on different flanks and Manchester United need more quality on both wings so one deal shouldn’t preclude the other.
Toni Kroos – there is a lot of talk about Manchester United breaking the bank for this lad but his agent has recently stated he will stay at Bayern Munich for another season at least. van Gaal may have to look elsewhere for his next midfield dynamo.
