United shell out 59.7 mn pounds for Di Maria

DPA/LondonManchester United broke the British transfer record when they signed Argentina midfielder Angel Di Maria (below) for 59.7 million pounds yesterday. The 26-year-old, who has 52 caps for Argentina, signed a five-year contract after agreeing personal terms for his move from Real Madrid. “United is the only club that I would have left Real Madrid for,” Di Maria told the club’s official website. “Louis van Gaal is a fantastic coach with a proven track record of success, and I am impressed by the vision and determination everyone has to get this club back to the top - where it belongs. I now just cannot wait to get started.” Van Gaal described Di Maria as world class and a “team player” with “immense natural talent.” “He is a tremendously fast and incisive left-footed player who puts fear into the most accomplished defence,” Van Gaal said. “His dribbling skills and his ability to take on and beat opponents are a joy to watch. He is an excellent addition to the team.”