Manchester United are set to win the race ahead of Liverpool over the signature of one of Europe’s hottest wonder kids. Louis van Gaal has reportedly given the green light for United to seal the deal for Memphis Depay with a £25m bid.

The 21 year-old Dutchman has made his name as one of the brightest prospects in world football and is being targeted by a whole host of top European sides. However it seems Manchester United are willing to shell out upwards of £20m to ensure his next destination is Manchester.

Memphis Depay’s name has been hot on the lips of many football fans throughout the year. He is admired by many as ‘the next Robben’ and has quite literally set the Eredivisie alight with his performances this season. 19 goals in 25 games means the winger is the league’s top scorer, a remarkable achievement for a player at such a young age.

Louis van Gaal is a known fan of Depay, his profound pace and agility combined with his eye for goal ensured the youngsters place in LvG’s Dutch squad for the 2014 World Cup, where he featured a hand full of times and chipped in with 2 goals and an assist.

However, there’s more. The Sunday Mirror Sport claim that Louis van Gaal’s relationship with with PSV technical director Marcel Brands will give United a further boost in landing Depay. Brands worked closely with Van Gaal when he was in charge of AZ Alkmaar, and the United boss has apparently made it clear that United are willing to meet Depay’s valuation, in an attempt to fend off any competitors.

Quotes from Brands seem to only strengthen the story: “The chances are very high that he leaves. If you see what clubs are enquiring about him, they really are the best in Europe.

“When I talk for PSV I would say he is not ready and should continue here for another year. But I am realistic and if I worked at a big European club, I’d buy him without question.

“With a heavy heart [we would let him go], because a great player and a great guy leaves. But we are also proud that a boy from the academy is going to make such a step.”

Manchester United’s interest in Memphis Depay is clearly very apparent. Louis van Gaal’s friendship with Marcel Brands, along with PSV manager Phillip Cocu admitting Depay’s departure was imminent, shows that the move has real potential.

As far as United fans should be concerned, Depay’s inclusion into the squad would be nothing short of a sensational addition.