Van Gaal salutes ace Ronaldo

LOUIS van Gaal hailed Cristiano Ronaldo as a “fantastic player” after admitting he is in the hunt for a signing to boost Manchester United's chances of challenging for the Champions League.

Van Gaal is hoping to mount a serious challenge for domestic and European silverware in the coming year after qualifying for the Champions League in his first term in charge.

Despite spending more than £225million since taking over, Van Gaal still thinks his squad lacks speed and creativity in attack. So the Dutchman is on the lookout for a forward who will help to put United on a par with their domestic and European rivals.

“We need still more speed in front and also more creativity,” the 63–year–old said in an interview with the British media on United’s pre–season tour of the United States.

“I can give examples of champions, Bayern Munich have (Franck) Ribery and (Arjen) Robben, Chelsea have (Eden) Hazard and Willian, Real Madrid – Ronaldo and (Gareth) Bale, Barcelona have Neymar and (Lionel) Messi. Manchester United fans want us to compete with these teams.”

When pressed about Ronaldo, Van Gaal dropped his guard.

“I make an exception for Ronaldo,” the former Barcelona and Bayern Munich coach said with a smile.

“He is a fantastic, fantastic player but he knows that. I like him a lot.”