United handed boost in midfielder’s pursuit

Manchester United’s pursuit of Kevin Strootman has received an unexpected boost, after Roma manager Rudi Garcia admitted he wouldn’t have the final say on the Dutchman’s future in the event of an offer.

Garcia has repeatedly ruled the possibility of selling the Dutchman, who impressed in his first campaign in Serie A before suffering an anterior cruciate ligament which forced him to miss the World Cup, stating that the Giallorossi had no intention of parting way with the former PSV midfielder.

Garcia, however, has since conceded that while him the club are determined to keep hold of Strootman, Roma’s president would have to make the final decision.

“Is Strootman for sale? You’ll have to ask our president,” Garcia said.”But the intention of the club is very clear: Strootman is an important player for us and I hope he is available for the home game against City on 10th December, which is a crucial match.”

United have been linked with a £30m move for the Dutchman, with Louis Van Gaal determined to strengthen his midfield options. A box-to-box midfielder with an imposing physical presence and an eye for goal, he scored five and assisted six in 25 Serie A games last season before getting injured, Strootman is likely to be top of United’s list ahead of the January transfer window.