Angel Di Maria 'has to adapt' to Manchester United philosophy warns Louis van Gaal, who admits openness to Gareth Bale arrival

Di Maria has made little impact since his £59.7m arrival last summer

Gareth Bale and Angel Di Maria (GETTY IMAGES)

Louis van Gaal has fuelled speculation that Manchester United could cut their losses on Angel Di Maria.

The Argentina international was signed for a British record transfer fee of £59.7m last summer but after a sprightly start at Old Trafford has faded. A red card and injury curtailed his run in the team but despite being available, Di Maria hasn't started any of Manchester United's last eight games.

It's led to speculation that the former Real Madrid player could make a swift exit - potentially back to the Bernabeu - and Van Gaal's latest comments will only increase those rumours.

"Players have to adapt to the team philosophy and Di Maria has to do that," he said ahead of United's match with Arsenal.

"Can Di Maria learn? That we have to wait and see. It is not because he doesn’t have the quality. He has to perform in a way that we want. Not in the way I want, but in the way we want as a club.

"When someone is sick for example, they have to change their behaviour. But it’s not easy — the old errors always come. And Di Maria is not playing at the moment."

Angel Di Maria and Louis van Gaal at Old Trafford (Getty Images)

Manchester United have been heavily linked with Gareth Bale with the prospect of some sort of swap deal involving the two troubled players being mooted. Van Gaal spoke about the potential of signing the Welshman.

"The team is more important than the individual. But when I think a player like Messi or Ronaldo or Bale can contribute in that philosophy, they are welcome to come," he said.

He added: "The first question is whether the player fits the profile of the position we want. Then the club shall negotiate and it’s out of my hands. I don’t spend the money!"