The 21-year-old was part of Van Gaal's World Cup squad, helping them
finish third in the tournament following a semi-final elimination by Argentina.
Despite the fact that Depay has scored 21 goals for PSV this season,
Van Gaal was reluctant to sign the player before the end of the campaign.
He would have preferred to get the deal done in June, but the
63-year-old said he had to sign the player now as Paris St Germain were also
determined to sign him.
"I have been forced to sign him," the Dutchman said. "I
don't want to sign him before the end of the season. We have to focus on our
games.
"When you sign a player you disturb the focus of your present
group of players.
"The coming matches are very important for Manchester United and
for all of the players. But because of the market, I must handle it (now) -
because otherwise he would have signed for PSG.
"That is why I signed Memphis."
Van Gaal feels his close relationship with PSV and the forward, who was
also linked with Liverpool, was key to sealing the deal.
When asked why he felt Depay was in danger of signing for PSG, Van Gaal
said: "Because at that time he was not reached by me.
"I don't want to speak with players before the season has ended.
"I have also a feeling to my players. But now, because of the
close relationship I have with PSV, I could handle it."
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