Despite the fact there's not much chance of him being in the dugout at Old Trafford next season, Louis Van Gaal is still running the rule over Manchester United's transfer business and is believed to be the reason as to why the Red Devils didn't sign Renato Sanches.
The 18-year-old midfielder instead signed for Bayern Munich this week, in a deal worth an initial 35m euros. The news incensed United fans who had been led to believe that their club had all but won the race for the Benfica wonderkid's signature.
Indeed, United had scouted Sanches 24 times this season, while the German champions had their scouts cast their eyes over the Portuguese youngster just twice before pulling the trigger on a big money move for a player who was one of the hottest properties in European football.
Picture via FC Bayern
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As United fans wondered just what had happened to their deal for the teen sensation, many blamed chief executive Ed Woodward, who has been notorious for his transfer market failings several times in the past, since taking over the mantle from the reliable David Gill. However, it would appear that Van Gaal was in fact the reason why Sanches won't be arriving at the Theatre of Dreams.
The Dutchman balked at Benfica's asking price for Sanches, despite having spent £36m on a 19-year-old Anthony Martial less than a year ago. Believing Sanches needed to demonstrate more reasons to deem such a price tag, Bayern swooped in to steal the youngster from under United's noses.
The news seems to confirm that Van Gaal is still confident of being in charge at Old Trafford, next season as it would be odd for him to nix a potentially huge transfer coup for an incoming manager.
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(H/T Metro)
Topics: Louis van Gaal, Football, Manchester United, Renato Sanches, Bayern Munich, Benfica