Is Dutch dangerman Depay solution to Man Utd striker shortage?

The former PSV predator looks his most threatening when driving inside from the left wing to release a trademark blistering shot with his peach of a right peg, but would need to add more discipline to his game were his duties to now include acting as a focal point and spearhead.

See Depay’s goal haul from last season:

Much will depend on Van Gaal’s philosophy and formation for the upcoming season as, should the Dutchman deploy a flexible three-pronged attack in the shape of a 4-3-3, Depay could easily fulfil a wide forward role, rotating across the frontline with Wayne Rooney and one of Angel Di Maria or Juan Mata.

With Van Persie’s departure believed to be imminent, Javier Hernandez currently injured and also linked with an exit, plus young sharpshooters Angelo Henriquez and Will Keane having already been offloaded, on permanent and loan deals respectively, more forward threat is clearly required.

Should poaching prodigy James Wilson also seek a temporary stint elsewhere for more game time, United will be looking rather threadbare up front. Recent reports tipping the likes of Karim Benzema, Edinson Cavani, Harry Kane Romelu Lukaku and Thomas Muller to arrive at Old Trafford all seem rather unrealistic, so Man Utd could move to save cash by looking within their current ranks.

Rumour has it that Van Gaal, famed for converting players into new roles with much success, is also keen to transform attacking midfielder Adnan Januzaj into a forward, which could make for some intriguing pre-season viewing.

The 63-year-old tactician is renowned for his work with young players, and seemed to confirm that approach would continue, stating: “We have enough strikers but Man United shall not buy [for the sake of it]. I want to develop players. When you buy it has to be better than what you have.”

Should Man Utd (20/1 to lift the Champions League)resist dipping into their coffers to reinforce the attack further it will be a huge risk, and show of faith, in United’s young-guns. Van Gaal, who is known for favouring strong but also technical forwards who can bring others into play, sticks staunchly by his playing philosophy, so it may actually prove prudent to field attackers already schooled in his tactics than spending big on older players unable to adapt.