Louis Van Gaal Has Made It Clear That United Could Buy A Striker

There is a very real possibility that Manchester United could sign a striker, according to Louis van Gaal. 

Ironically, after a season in which the Red Devils’ strike corp was arguably its most talented set of players, they find themselves with a dearth of midfield options, a bolstered defense, and only one proven senior striker: Wayne Rooney (Apologies to Javier Hernandez).

Many think that the team needs to buy another striker, and van Gaal has not ruled out more spending, although he didn’t say specifically what positions further spending would increase. 

"We're not finished yet," van Gaal tells #MUTV on transfers. "We still need to improve at least two positions and we shall when possible."

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) July 17, 2015

Those are strong words from a man representing a club that has been on a mission this transfer window. The acquisitions of Memphis Depay, Bastian Schweinstieger, Morgan Schneiderlin, and Matteo Darmian are impressive statements of intent, and the thought of more to come is astounding. 

Van Gaal previously said that Depay will get a chance to play in a striker’s role, but did not mention the Dutchmen when talking about his strike corp recently. 

“We have Chicharito [Hernandez] and maybe Wilson and maybe there comes a surprise. It's a process.”

The omission of Depay and the mention of a “surprise” carry on the possibility that van Gaal might still acquire another striker, although who it would be brought in is anyone’s guess. 

Van Gaal still seems to have full confidence in Wayne Rooney. When asked if he was worried about a lack of striking options, he responded, “No, because we have Rooney, he can play in the striker's position.”

As it stands, van Gaal could acquire a quality striker to compete with Rooney for the starting position, a lesser one to be a solid back-up, or none at all, in which instance Javier Hernandez and James Wilson will be keen to prove themselves.  

Manchester United continues its preseason tour with a match against the San Jose Earthquakes on Tuesday, July 21st at 11:05 PM EST.  

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