Despite splashing the cash in summer, Manchester United are yet to impress in the Premier League this campaign, and Van Gaal is looking to bring in some much needed defensive and midfield reinforcements.
Enzo Pérez is highly rated by the Dutch manager and he would be looking to use him on the right hand side of a 4-4-2 diamond. United would have to offer at at least £23.5m to meet the Argentines release clause.
Another player that is targeted for a move to Manchester is Nicolás Otamendi. He is currently at Spanish side Valencia, and a central defender, an area which is a obvious priority for United. If any deal was to be done, Valencia would be looking for around £40m for the defender who is also being tracked by Chelsea and Manchester City.
Van Gaal would like to use Di Maria to his advantage in this situation, and bringing in some of the wingers fellow countrymen is bound to boost his confidence.
The presence of Di Maria at Man United could also help persuade Pérez and Otamendi to agree to a move to the Premier League.
By Connor Billington
@c0nnorb96_