Is Real Madrid dangerman Angel Di Maria worth a British record fee?

Following Real’s acquisition of World Cup star James Rodriguez, though, it seems the writing is on the wall for the 26-year-old at the Bernabeu.

To play in the attacking midfield berth that has become customary to him both for club and country, Di Maria would have to displace Mata. Van Gaal rates him highly, but could a wing back spot in place of ill-disciplined Brazilian Rafael or Ecuador skipper Antonio Valencia be a viable alternative?

Di Maria certainly has the engine, pace, workrate and versatility to make this role in the United boss’ favoured 3-4-1-2 formation his own, and can provide constant goal threat and delivery from out wide.

No matter the system, the Red Devils will always attempt to attack from the wings, and Di Maria would be an upgrade in that area. There is little doubt that the former Benfica star would also get the nod ahead of much-maligned widemen Ashley Young, Valencia and Wilfried Zaha if a more standard 4-3-3 or 4-4-2 setup were employed.

If even a proven Premier League star such as Mata can struggle at Old Trafford, though, there is no guarantee Di Maria will make the difference; although his adaptability, ability to press opponents and speed are all qualities United crave.

His anticipated arrival does, however, call into into question the future of young attacker Adnan Januzaj, United’s breakout talent from last term, and how he will find the required game time to develop. The young Belgian is widely tipped to become the Red Devils’ next homegrown hero, and it might be more prudent to nurture his abilities, instead saving the mooted Di Maria outlay for a threadbare defence and midfield.

It appears unlikely now that United will make signings in those areas before the window slams shut, but it seems senseless to keep adding attacking talent in the hope it will hide other evident holes in the squad. Tabloid gossip columns continue to link versatile Dutchman Daley Blind with a reunion with Van Gaal, his national manager at the recent World Cup, however.

Judging from the recent draw with Sunderland, in which big stars such as Mata and Rooney were again disappointing, the Red Devils, odds-on at 8/11 to finish outside the top four, will need more than just Di Maria to paper the cracks. However, ignoring the alarming bigger picture at Old Trafford, the acquisition of the talented Argentine would be a fantastic coup for a club not even competing in the Champions League.

Fans will just have to hope that Di Maria, nicknamed ‘noodle’, will not be burdened by his potential price tag. His arrival, whilst not bolstering the squad in the required positions, could boost morale enough to help United clinch silverware once more.