"Radamel Falcao could still join Manchester United permanently" - Monaco

Monaco’s vice-president has revealed that Radamel Falcao could still make a permanent move to Manchester United at the end of the season.

Falcao is on a season-long loan from the French club but has scored just four Premier League goals for Louis van Gaal’s side.

Speaking to the French newspaper Nice-Matin on Tuesday, Vadim Vasilyev acknowledged that the Colombian striker has not enjoyed his best season but admitted United could still sign him in the summer.

“I saw the Manchester United people last Sunday and they have not yet decided if they would exercise the option,” he said. “It’s not his best season, but they kept the opportunity to make a decision at the end of the season.”

Under the terms of his loan, United have first option to sign the 29-year-old in the summer for a fee of £43.5m. However, Vasilyev admitted that other clubs have also been in touch to register their interest in Falcao but Monaco are waiting on United’s decision.

“We are not in any other negotiations, even if big clubs are interested,” he said. “The decision is with Manchester, then we will discuss with the player what he wants. I would like to have more visibility.”

Vasilyev also detailed the circumstances that led to Falcao’s departure in last summer’s transfer window.

“He had mishaps in Monaco. He had problems with the coach [Claudio Ranieri], there was a lack of understanding; he was also seriously injured and missed the World Cup. In late August, he came to tell us that he wanted to play at a higher level.”

Credit: Guardian Sport