Mats Hummels is the top target in a trio of transfers reportedly plotted by Manchester United, as they look to continue spending big in the hope of re-establishing themselves as giants of English football.
Along with Hummels, Van Gaal is reportedly interested in Nathaniel Clyne to sure up the right-back position that has been troubling United for a number of years.
Roma’s Kevin Strootman is also on the shortlist, and has been for some time.
Strootman himself, along with Clyne, have been identified as secondary targets that can wait until summer, but Van Gaal is set on signing Hummels for an eye-watering £47 million this window.
The moves will be funded by the sale of peripheral players, such as Darren Fletcher and Anderson.
Robert Middleton: @robmid4
