Manchester United seal signing of Southampton’s Morgan Schneiderlin

Alongside the signing of Schneiderlin, Man Utd have also added Germany captain and Bayern Munich clubman Bastian Schweinsteiger to their midfield options.

United’s persistent problems in the middle of the park, particularly when deep-lying playmaker Michael Carrick is absent, have been well documented, but the Premier League giants can now boast an array of options with Schneiderlin ready to link-up with the likes of Daley Blind and Ander Herrera.

Van Gaal favours versatile players who bring balance to the team, and right-footer Schneiderlin, who could partner Carrick and/or Schweinsteiger, or fill in for either in the engine room, will bring both qualities to Old Trafford.

The six-capped Bleus international provided four Premier League goals and one assist last season, but it was his simple yet accurate passing, ability to shield the ball and defensive nous which caught the eye, with tenacious performances against the likes of Chelsea earning the midfielder attention from the France squad.

Having been snapped-up from boyhood club Strasbourg in 2008, Schneiderlin has long been part of Southampton’s incredible rise through the divisions to reach England’s top tier, but has finally made his move, having been convinced to stay at St Mary’s last season following apparent interest from Tottenham.

Upon their return to the Champions League, Man Utd are now assembling a squad capable of re-establishing themselves on such a stage, despite Robin van Persie set to be unveiled as a Fernbahce player on July 14th. Odds of 20/1 say the Red Devils will win Europe’s elite club competition.