Manchester United could now have a strong chance of signing Roma midfielder Kevin Strootman in January due to the Serie A club's early elimination from the Champions League, according to sources.

Strootman's season only began last month following his return from a cruciate knee ligament injury sustained in March.

The Red Devils' interest in the Netherlands international is long-standing and has only increased following the arrival of his former Oranje coach, Louis van Gaal, at the Premier League club in the summer.

There had been extensive preliminary discussions between all parties, but Roma's initial positive results in the Champions League had meant they were totally unwilling to do business in January.

Van Gaal sees the defensive midfield position as key to strengthening their club.