Louis van Gaal: 'Radamel Falcao loan an unmissable opportunity'

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has declared that the chance to sign striker Radamel Falcao on loan on transfer deadline day was an 'unmissable opportunity'.

The prolific Monaco hitman completed his season-long switch to Old Trafford after passing a medical in the early hours of the morning, when the Red Devils were granted an extension for the deal.

Van Gaal said in a statement: "I am delighted Radamel has joined us on loan this season. He is one of the most prolific goalscorers in the game. His appearance-to-goal ratio speaks for itself and, when a player of this calibre becomes available, it is an opportunity not to be missed."

United have agreed to pay £6m to take Falcao on loan, and have the option to buy the Colombia international at the end of the season.

Falcao becomes United's second deadline-day capture following the signing of Daley Blind from Ajax.