Manchester United to recall Nani? Reports suggest Louis van Gaal wants winger back

The Portugal international was sent to Sporting Lisbon on a season-long loan

Nani at Sporting Lisbon (GETTY IMAGES)

Manchester United have enquired about the possibility of recalling Luis Nani from his loan at Sporting Lisbon, according to Goal.com.

The Portugal international's Old Trafford career looked to be over when he was allowed to join his former club on a season-long loan as part of the deal that saw Manchester United sign Marcos Rojo for £16m.

It ended years of nagging questions about his consistency and ability at the top level and was a switch welcomed by the player who had become frustrated by his bit-part role at the club.

However, it's claimed that Louis van Gaal has reconsidered his position, feeling now that Nani could yet have a role to play at Old Trafford. The Dutchman originally tried to employ a 3-5-2 formation but has backed down and more recently selected a 4-1-4-1 shape. The current system would provide more opportunities for Nani should he return.

The 27-year-old, who arrived at Old Trafford in 2007 for in excess of £20m, has also been in excellent form this season. He's scored six goals in 13 appearances for the club at which he rose to prominence. Among those is three goals in four Champions League appearances for the Portuguese side.

Should United recall Nani, according to Goal.com, it could lead to extra compensation payments to Lisbon in relation to the purchase of Rojo.