Manchester United Transfer News: Louis van Gaal Admits Red Devils Need to Sign Players

Louis van Gaal says Manchester United will sign players before the transfer window shuts on 1 September.

The Dutchman started his first competitive game for United with a 2-1 defeat at the hands of Swansea City at Old Trafford on Saturday.

The Red Devils had nine players out due to injuries and lack of match fitness for the clash against the Welsh club. The list included Michael Carrick, Robin van Persie, Jonny Evans and Luke Shaw.

Injuries to key first team players saw Van Gaal field Tyler Blackett and Jesse Lingard in the starting lineup. However, the latter was withdrawn in the first half after he picked up an injury.

The former Barcelona and Bayern Munich manager says he already had plans to bring players to Old Trafford even before Swansea clash.

"Yes, but I have thought that before this match, so it is no different. When we were playing in the US, I thought the same," Van Gaal said, as quoted by the Manchester Evenings News.

"I know in what positions we need better players. But you have to buy only when the player can fulfil the way of playing that I ask. We have to wait and see. But we could have won today."

United have so far made two major signings after they completed deals for Ander Herrera and Shaw earlier in June.

Van Gaal started the pre-season on a brighter note as they remained unbeaten in the US. United boss says their latest defeat was disappointing and the players' confidence suffered a blow after Saturday's fixture.

"Of course it is very disappointing for the players, the fans, for me, and the staff. But, that you know," United manager said.

"When you have preparation time and you win everything and your first match you lose. It cannot be worse, I believe. Also in the process it is not good because we have built up a lot of confidence and then it shall be smashed down because of this result."

"But we have to know that it is only one game of many games. You shall not be the champion at this moment. You shall be the champion in May. That is what has happened today," Van Gaal concluded.