New Manchester United Signing Ander Herrera Aims to be Next Paul Scholes

New Manchester United signing Ander Herrera has claimed he hopes to follow the footsteps of Old Trafford legend Paul Scholes.

The Spanish midfielder became Louis Van Gaal's first signing of the summer after the club activated his €36 (£28) release clause – having already been targeted by former United manager David Moyes in the previous campaign.

Herrera earned a reputation as one of the best midfielders in La Liga during his time at Athletic Bilbao, and has already started to prove his worth at Old Trafford.

Even though the Spanish midfielder struggled with an injury earlier in the season, he has scored two goals in the last two games, being one of the only bright spots of van Gaal's side during the Sunday 5-3 defeat against Leicester City.

The new United star aims to fill the vacany left by Scholes' retirement but is aware he needs to improve considerably on his goal output, after last season he scored just five La Liga goals.

"Goalscoring is not one of my best qualities. But I think it's very important for midfielders. The best midfielders in the world like Paul Scholes scored hundreds of goals. I want to make and score more goals, and I wish one day that I can be like Scholes," he said to Manchester United official website.

"I have a lot of respect for him and I always enjoyed watching him. He always worked hard, helped the team and always made a lot of chances not only for himself but for all his team-mates. I know it will be difficult but I wish that one day I can be similar to him."

Meanwhile, the Spaniard reveals he is enjoying his new experience in the Premier League even though United have secured only one victory from their five Premier League games.

"I am very happy of course because after a few months I have experienced everything – at Old Trafford, in the city and in the club. Now I know how big the club is," said Ander.

"Being on tour was amazing, but when you come to Manchester and you play at Old Trafford you feel the real Manchester United. I'm really enjoying things and looking forward to the rest of the season. I want to help the team achieve our objectives."