Manchester United willing to wait on Strootman

Bastian Schweinsteiger is now their top midfield target for the summer but Louis van Gaal is open to doing a deal for the Roma star earlier than January if necessary

Manchester United are continuing to monitor Kevin Strootman’s situation with a view to signing the Romaand Netherlands midfielder, most likely in January.

As revealed by Goal, Bastian Schweinsteiger is the Red Devils’ top midfield target this summer, with a £20 million bid for the Bayern Munich star on its way.

But manager Louis van Gaal remains keen on bringing Strootman to Old Trafford at the earliest opportunity, despite the 24-year-old currently recovering from a serious knee injury.

Strootman joined the likes of Mats Hummels and Luke Shaw on Van Gaal’s wishlist upon agreeing to take over at Old Trafford after the World Cup and United have asked to be kept abreast of the Netherlands star’s situation.

He was forced to miss out on the World Cup after being sidelined with a knee injury that could disrupt the start of next season.

But it has not deterred United's interest in signing him, with a January bid most likely to allow Strootman time to complete his rehabilitation. Should a summer bid become necessary to securing a deal, however, Van Gaal is open to making his move more quickly.

Strootman’s agent confirmed earlier in June that his client is “of interest” to the new United boss, with whom he has worked in the national team since 2012.