Manchester United's late but great signing

Manchester United completed the signing of long term midfield target Ander Herrera for £29m. The Red Devils had been chasing the former Athletic Bilbao midfielder for some time, a deal that was almost completed a year ago under the sacked David Moyes. Fast forward a year and a Fellaini later and Manchester United finally get their man. Could Herrera be one of the missing pieces to Van Gaal's side?  

First, the negatives. Ander Herrera's arrival represents a massive mistake in the investment of Marouane Fellaini. Last summer, Manchester United's focus area for transfers was in the centre of midfield and the list of names went from Fabregas to Thiago to Herrera and finally ending up with what looked like a panic buy in Fellaini for a questionable fee.

By purchasing Herrera, the man Manchester United wanted before Fellaini, the club is recognising that Fellaini was a poor purchase and one they regret. Manchester United have gone back to an original transfer target and paid another huge fee because they overpaid for a Belgian midfielder that flopped. The midfield area was still weak even with the signing of Fellaini and there is no doubt Herrera's arrival will strengthen the side.  Fairly embarrassing for a side like Manchester United to over pay for a player that didn't really fit the football that United play and then go out and have to fork out another £29m a season later to finally get the right man.  

Ander Herrera arrives at Manchester United
for a fee of £29 million

But, in Ander Herrera, Manchester United have captured a intelligent attacking midfielder that can offer Louis Van Gaal something a little different in midfield. Not a midfielder that can be expected to be a deep lying play maker like Carrick, but could line up next to the Englishman as a more energetic bridge in between the defence and attack that creates chances and dictates play.

Herrera is the sort of player that Manchester United were missing this year as he can provide the higher tempo in midfield during attacking phases, something Gary Neville was so critical about last season.  One reserve regarding Herrera is his goal and assist input. Last year, Herrera only scored 5 times and registered 5 assists, not the greatest turn out for a player costing just under £30m.    

The big Belgian was considered a flop
by many under David Moyes's short stint 

Herrera did however, reach the top 5 in the through ball category, level with a certain Andres Iniesta of Barcelona. The Manchester United faithful cannot expect an immediate explosive impact from Herrera. He is a midfielder that will contribute to a majority of their attacking moves, whether it be in a obvious way or not.

The 24 year old will fit perfectly into the set up at Old Trafford and with a attack favouring manager like Van Gaal, Herrera could thrive. With other big names expected to arrive at United, Herrera is a player that fans will need to keep an eye on as he could become a pivotal player for the side.