Five cracking creative midfielders for Manchester United

Koke (Atletico Madrid)
Said to have been a target under former boss David Moyes, composed Koke has become a vital component in Diego Simeone’s side, and with good reason.

Combining tactical awareness with work-rate and the vision to be able to carve open La Liga defences with a single pass, the Atleti academy product would be a fine fit at Old Trafford alongside compatriots David De Gea, Juan Mata and Herrera.

Should he prove too tough to prise from Spain, Van Gaal could turn to Valencia playmaker Dani Parejo instead, who has been quietly and effectively developing into another top Los Che talent.

Kevin Strootman (Roma)
Van Gaal has already brought former Netherlands charge Blind to Old Trafford, and has made public his interest in snapping up another of his most trusted ex-Clockwork Orange men, Strootman.

The ex-Barcelona and Bayern Munich boss spoke of Strootman, who is nicknamed ‘the washing machine’ for his ability to recycle and retain possession, after the Dutch international suffered a knee injury that ruled him out of the World Cup.

“Strootman is a player who brings a balance to the entire team,” said Van Gaal, and the Roma box-to-box maestro has certainly proven him right, adding goals, assists and invaluable interceptions to the Giallorossi cause.

Jordy Clasie (Feyenoord)
Should Strootman’s injury issues scupper a summer switch, Van Gaal could do worse than look towards compatriot Clasie as a cheaper alternative.

The crafty conductor, who Van Gaal also selected for his Clockwork Orange World Cup squad, seems ready for the step up to a bigger stage.

Perhaps not quite the finished article, exciting anchorman Clasie is both a tenacious tackler and silky passer, able to contribute effectively at both ends of the pitch.

Morgan Schneiderlin (Southampton)
Whilst Schneiderlin could be described as more of a midfield shield, with his anticipation and ability to read the game vital to high-flying Southampton’s superb defensive record, the France international is no slouch creatively.

Just as comfortable in springing attacks as sitting deep, Schneiderlin could be the perfect foil for United’s abundance of forwards, and seems to be keen to move on from St Mary’s. He is 2/1 to help Ronald Koeman’s Saints finish in the top four.

The Red Devils have been heavily linked with Schneiderlin’s compatriot, and former academy graduate, Paul Pogba. While the powerful Juventus dynamo has the potential to be one the most complete midfielders in Europe, he would likely command an eye-watering fee, making Southampton shield Schneiderlin a potentially better bargain.