Former Manchester United manager Louis Van Gaal has spoken out about ex-United player Memphis Depay’s chances of succeeding at Barcelona after it was reported that the dutchman has agreed personal terms with the Spanish giants, as per leading journalist Fabrizio Romano.
Depay, 26, was one of Van Gaal’s signing whilst at United after he joined from dutch side PSV in 2015 for a fee of £30.6m, as per TransferMarkt.
However, despite being handed the famous number seven shirt at United Depay failed to set Old Trafford alight after scoring just seven goals in 53 appearances in all competitions and was eventually moved onto Lyon 18-months later.
After spending a decent three and a half years in Ligue 1, Depay looks to be on the verge of becoming new Barcelona boss Ronald Koeman’s first signing after agreeing personal terms with the Catalonian side.
Memphis Depay have agreed personal terms with Barcelona after contacts started days ago. But final agreement is still to be reached between Barça and OL – talks ongoing.
Barça are negotiating also with Wijnaldum agents – no opening bid to Liverpool yet. 🔵🔴 #FCB #LFC #transfers— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 9, 2020
Speaking to Tutto Mercato Web as quoted by The Mirror Van Gaal was asked whether or not Depay can continue impressing in Spain, he said: “There’s always a question mark. Depay is an interesting player, especially when he’s free to play.
“But we have to consider adapting to a new culture and a new team. And the first year is always the hardest.
“Look at [Matthijs] De Ligt, or Frenkie de Jong.
“Depay has talent, but he’s not [Lionel] Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo.”
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