If latest reports are to be believed, Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has reportedly told the club chief executive, Ed Woodward, to ensure the signing of Real Madrid attacking midfielder Angel Di Maria before the EPL transfer window closes on September 1.

The Dutch manager is said to be dismayed as he watched his side fall apart during his first competitive match in charge in the English Premier League last week. Manchester United lost the match 2-1 to a Swansea team, who hardly offered any attacking threat. A neat equaliser from the English national team captain Wayne Rooney notwithstanding, the Swans snatched victory as United failed miserably to deal with a quick break.

Now, Van Gaal wants to include top-notch quality in his team, beginning with Real Madrid's versatile winger.

A report by Daily Mail has detailed what United is willing for a Di Maria offer. The report says, "It is understood United have told the Argentine that, with performance-based incentives, they will pay him around £200,000 ($334,130) a week. Considering that the club would enter a five-year deal, it would take United's investment to £100 million ($167,065,000) when a transfer fee of around £50 million is included."

The report further notes, "Di Maria is aware of United's capacity to pay big wages and has told his family of his surprise."

According to Sky Sports, Van Gaal had also dropped Di Maria's name while discussing what he requires, saying, "We don't have wingers of the highest level, like (Cristiano) Ronaldo or Di Maria or somebody like that."

In fact, Di Maria is one of several signings required at Old Trafford. The positive pre-season of Manchester United crashed into reality as soon as the competitive whistle sounded. It exposed several glaring gaps obvious within the team.

As the club has been using Ashley Young, Jesse Lingard, Adnan Januzaj and Nani as wing-back, it clearly highlights the club's urgent requirement for both defenders as well as wingers. In any case, the club requires one central midfielder.

With Di Maria in his side, Van Gaal would be able to plug in a number of holes immediately. The Argentinian is lethal on any flank and can also play through the middle, where he offers untiring energy. In addition, Di Maria possesses the aptitude to carry the ball, win it back and will deliver penetrating passes.