Manchester United boss Louis Van Gaal has gone on the record, shedding light on the logic behind signing Radamel Falcao after the Red Devils completed their £6m season-long loan deal for the Colombian superstar.
Despite his undeniable goalscoring talent, something Manchester United could capitalize on given their first four games of the 2014-15 campaign has only produced two goals, many club supporters questioned the move to sign the 28-year-old.
Completing the deal for the Monaco-owned striker early Tuesday morning, many took to Twitter to air their doubts as to whether another striker is what was needed at Old Trafford, given the club's defensive frailties, which has seen them concede seven goals in their first four matches.
One Utd fan just said to me "I hope Falcao can play at centre half"
— Ian Abrahams (Moose) (@BroadcastMoose) September 1, 2014
Little confused about this Falcao signing. We need a defence....
— Ryan (@RyanW_M) September 1, 2014
We need a defender and a midfielder. Then we sign falcao... How does this make sense #MUFC
— Carlos Beato (@CarlosOCSC) September 1, 2014
However, the Dutch manager explains bringing El Tigre to the Theatre of Dreams was an opportunity the 63-year-old boss could not turn down.
"I am delighted Radamel has joined us on loan this season. He is one of the most prolific scorers in the game," Van Gaal said.
"His appearances-to-goal ratio speaks for itself and when a player of this calibre becomes available it is an opportunity not to be missed."
Falcao, who expressed joy in working under Louis van Gaal, will reportedly now earn a whopping £346k-per-week, making him the highest paid football player in the English Premier League, surpassing Wayne Rooney.
"I am looking forward to working with Louis van Gaal and contributing to the team's success at this very exciting period in the club's history."
Falcao to earn a staggering £346k-per-week salary at Man United
Radamel Falcao will earn a massive £346,000 per week at Manchester United. (Telegraph)
— Transfer Centre (@CentreTransfer) September 1, 2014
Humor: Wayne Rooney's reaction after finding out he isn't the highest-paid player in the EPL
Wayne Rooney on hearing Falcao will be earning £346k a week. pic.twitter.com/OpNxOLauNV
— GeniusFootball (@GeniusFootball) September 1, 2014