Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal is preparing to intensify the Red Devils’ transfer activity by signing at least one defender after seeing his Holland side crash out of the World Cup, Football Express News understands.
The Netherlands head coach suffered the heartache of a penalty shoot-out defeat to Argentina in last night’s semi-final, after holding them to a goalless draw.
And while van Gaal and his players must remain in Brazil until the weekend in order to face the host nation in Saturday night’s third-place play-off, the 62-year-old has a busy 48 hours ahead of him.
A source close to Old Trafford told FEN the club’s pursuit of summer transfer window targets will now gather pace as the Dutchman’s attention inevitably turns to the high-profile role awaiting him in the Premier League.
He handed a list of instructions to United officials last month, which led to the acquisition of defender Luke Shaw and midfielder Ander Herrera from Southampton and Athletic Bilbao respectively.
However, for the first time since agreeing to become David Moyes’ permanent successor, van Gaal finds himself in a position to devote a chunk of his time and energy to United matters.
The club insider informed FEN that central defence is at the forefront of the manager’s thinking, and he has put together a shortlist of candidates to fill the gaps left by departed duo Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic.
Feyenoord defender Stefan de Vrij, who has blossomed under van Gaal at international level, remains a a target despite strong interest from Serie A club Lazio.