Manchester United have not made a decision on the future of Radamel Falcao – despite reports to the contrary – and a ruling on the Colombia international’s fate will be determined by manager Louis van Gaal at the end of the season.
United hold a £43 million option to buy the striker from AS Monaco. But since Falcao has struggled with injuries and poor form during his first season at Old Trafford, club officials are hesitant to sign the Colombian to a permanent deal.
Falcao has scored four goals in 16 appearances for United this season.
Earlier this year, the striker expressed his desire to remain at the club. But was cautious about the prospect of staying with United past this season.
“From my point of view, yes I want to stay,” Falcao said. “But obviously I have to analyze the situation, see if I play more and see what decision the board takes. But I really want to stay.”
Following a 1-0 defeat to Southampton in January – a game which saw Falcao omitted from the 18-man match day squad – Van Gaal informed the media he has continually held face-to-face conversations with the striker in which he has explained his expectations to him.
“Falcao has to prove himself,” Van Gaal said. “That we have agreed. Because of that, we have made this deal [referring to his loan agreement].
“It is not the end of the year so he has a chance to do that.”
Last month, Van Gaal praised Falcao’s contributions despite the striker’s lack of goals.
“There are more aspects for a striker than goals,” the manager said. “For example in the game with Burnley [a 3-1 United win in February] you have seen the header back for Smalling to score was from Falcao.”
“To be approachable for your fellow players is also an aspect I shall not judge only on the goals. It is a bigger view than that.”
Despite his current statistics United officials are reportedly open to Falcao remaining at the club, provided his current fee can be negotiated down.
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