Man Utd Transfers: 8 Dream Signings To Win The Fans Back

5. Kevin Strootman

The Netherlands arguably had to resort to playing a 3-5-2 formation when Kevin Strootman's absence from the World Cup was confirmed, with the Roma midfielder being plagued with long-term knee problems. Able to bring great balance to his sides, the Dutchman would be a key signing for his compatriot coach whose current starting line-up lacks a touch of solidity. Armed with an impressive passing range and, when fit, able to cover the ground required in the central midfield hub, Strootman's work would give Juan Mata slightly more freedom ahead of him. His injury issues are a worrying factor of a potential transfer, but could act as a stronger bargaining position for Man United - though they would stand a lot to gain. Van Gaal already knows the calibre of the former PSV lynchpin and may have perhaps been tempted to keep tabs on the Netherlands international until the January transfer window, but a lacklustre performance against Swansea might be the catalyst that the United boss needed to force through some immediate deals aimed towards imminent improvement.