We signed Depay to stop him joining PSG, admits Van Gaal
LOUIS VAN GAAL says he was forced into signing Memphis Depay to stop the player from joining Paris Saint- Germain, but warned it is only the start of Manchester United’s summer transfer business.
The United manager landed the PSV Eindhoven forward, 21, on Thursday for £25million, but will have a further £75m at his disposal to pursue Borussia Dortmund central defender Mats Hummels and Southampton full back Nathaniel Clyne, as well as extra cash for Real Madrid winger Gareth Bale.
When asked if he expected to conclude more business at the end of the season Van Gaal said confidently: ‘Manchester United shall always react when it is necessary.’
On Depay, he added: ‘I have been forced to sign him. I didn’t want to before the end of the season because you disturb the focus of your present group but otherwise he would have joined Paris Saint-Germain.’
Van Gaal said he intervened to prevent Depay, the Dutch league’s top scorer, from heading to France, using his close relationship with the management of PSV to set up the deal.
The Dutchman also congratulated champions Chelsea and said he was not disappointed that old friend Jose Mourinho had given his side four days off before tomorrow’s game at home to Liverpool, United’s rivals for a top-four spot.
‘I have sent him a message,’ he said. ‘It was well deserved. You cannot doubt they are the real champions.’
A number of United players are doubtful for today’s game at Crystal Palace after a virus swept through the squad. ‘We have a virus in our dressing room,’ Van Gaal said. ‘A lot of players are suffering from it and I have a little bit of pain in the throat.’
Van Gaal also confirmed Michael Carrick will not play again this season because of a calf injury.