Pedro to Manchester United: Louis van Gaal says £22m winger can turn Manchester United into champions

Pace and energy is what's needed at Old Trafford

Pedro pictured in Barcelona training (GETTY IMAGES)

Louis van Gaal has said Pedro can turn Manchester United into genuine title contenders this season.

The Barcelona winger is being lined up to replace the outgoing Angel Di Maria, who is on the verge of completing a £44m move to PSG.

Pedro, who came through the Nou Camp ranks and has helped his current club to three Champions League titles and countless other trophies, is expected to move to Old Trafford in a £22m deal.

The qualities that he will bring are just what's needed at Manchester United according to Van Gaal.

"Barcelona have the speed of Neymar and Messi - and they have Pedro behind them," the Dutchman told the Sun. "We have to compete with that.

"We can win the title if we can buy players with speed and creativity. We have to improve our selection in that way.

"They are our competitors. Chelsea have Hazard, Willian, Oscar — that is speed and creativity."

Manchester United begin their Premier League campaign this Saturday, with Tottenham coming to Old Trafford.