Louis Van Gaal confirms intention to buy superstar player for Man United

Louis van Gaal hailed Cristiano Ronaldo as a ''fantastic player'' after admitting he is in the hunt for a marquee signing to boost Manchester United's chances of challenging for the Champions League.

Van Gaal is hoping to mount a serious challenge for domestic and European silverware in the coming year after qualifying for the Champions League in his first term in charge.

Despite spending more than £225m since taking over, Van Gaal still thinks his squad lacks speed and creativity in attack.

The Dutchman is therefore on the lookout for a talismanic forward who will help to put United on a par with their domestic and European rivals.

''We need still more speed in front and also more creativity,'' the 63-year-old said in an interview with the British media on United's pre-season tour of the United States.

''That is why I hope (Angel) Di Maria shall stay. But we don't know that (he will).''

When asked what kind of player he needs to make United true competitors in the coming year, Van Gaal added: ''I can give examples of champions, Bayern Munich have (Franck) Ribery and (Arjen) Robben, Chelsea have (Eden) Hazard and Willian, Real Madrid - Ronaldo and (Gareth) Bale, Barcelona have Neymar and (Lionel) Messi.

''Manchester United fans want us to compete with these teams.

''(Ashley) Young and (Juan) Mata had fantastic seasons (last year), with assists and goals, but to win the Champions League you need speed also.

''That is why I think, maybe, we still have to buy a player with speed and creativity.''