Manchester United favourites to sign Memphis Depay ahead of Liverpool

Manchester United have received a massive boost in their pursuit of PSV Eindhoven winger Memphis Depay, with Goal reporting that the player has his heart set on reigniting his relationship with manager Louis van Gaal.

Liverpool and Tottenham were also reported to be interested in the player, but United are currently the front runners, ahead of what is likely to be a decisive three months for the 20-time Champions.

Reports suggest that Van Gaal and Depay have a good understanding between them with the Dutchman colluding with the 21-year-old in order to keep him at the Eredivisie for another year last summer, to facilitate a big money move in the coming season.

Depay has taken the season by storm, scoring 22 goals in 33 games in all competitions, a brilliant return for a player who is still learning his trade as an international.

Depay's form also prompted Van Gaal to select him for the 2014 World Cup, where he put in a commendable shift to help the Netherlands secure their way into the semi-finals.

His arrival can prove to be a warning for Angel di Maria, whose big money move from Real Madrid last summer failed to enthral fans and has been linked to Paris Saint-Germain, after only a year in the Premier League.

Depay is unlikely to be the only acquisition Van Gaal makes in the summer, should he keep his spot at Old Trafford. The Red Devils are in urgent need to strengthen their defence, which has been leaking goals off late and also add a commanding figure in the midfield, with Michael Carrick entering his mid-30s.

The Red Devils are currently fourth in the league and shall face Liverpool at Anfield in a game, which will be crucial in deciding the final Champions League spots.