Former Netherlands internationals Mark van Bommel and Roy Makaay have both told Sports Mole that Memphis Depay has the potential to become an important player for Manchester United.
The Red Devils confirmed the signing of the 21-year-old from PSV Eindhoven on Friday, having previously revealed that a transfer fee had been agreed with their Eredivisie counterparts early last month.
Van Bommel, who played alongside the winger during the latter stages of his career at PSV, insisted that Depay has made the switch at the right time.
"He's made a good step because in Holland he was too good, not in every match, but we saw in some that it was too easy for him. He's ready for the next step," said the 38-year-old.
"It's a different way of life and playing for him. In Holland, it's a different league, but at United he's at one of the biggest clubs in the whole world, so it's not so easy for a young guy.
"If I say he is the new Lionel Messi, I see the headlines tomorrow morning! That's not realistic. He has to start playing, then we will see how he develops. It's difficult to know how he will develop at a new level and in a new country - it's his first time abroad. He has potential, otherwise they wouldn't buy him."
Meanwhile, Makaay highlighted Depay's ability to cause problems from dead-ball situations as one of his best attributes.
"He's quick, has a good dribble and a good cross. He not only takes free kicks, he can also shoot at goal from 30 metres because he has a strange way of shooting, which makes it very difficult for goalkeepers," added the former Bayern Munich and Deportivo La Coruna striker.
"He was top scorer as a left winger, which says a lot about his quality, although the Premier League is something else.
"Striking free kicks like he does gives you an extra weapon. [Man United] had one of the best free-kick takers in the world some years ago in David Beckham. If you can't find a gap during the game, you can open things up with a good free kick."
Depay scored a total of 50 goals in 124 outings for PSV.
Liam Apicella
