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Louis van Gaal admits the threat of David De Gea joining Real Madrid was behind his decision to sign Argentine shot-stopper Sergio Romero.

Manchester United announced the move - which sees the goalkeeper sign a three-year contract - in the early hours of this morning.

Romero said the switch is a "dream come true" and heaped praise on boss Van Gaal after putting pen to paper.

But with De Gea's future uncertain, Van Gaal claimed he was forced into making a move for another goalkeeper - and opted for one who impressed him during last summer's World Cup.

"I think that in our circumstances, with the threat that David de Gea is going to Real Madrid, we have to prepare our season and I think Sergio Romero can fulfil that because you have to handle very quickly when it may happen with David de Gea," the United manager said.

Van Gaal added: "He is a very good choice.

(Image: Tom Purslow) (Image: Tom Purslow)

"He is the Argentinian goalkeeper. He has international experience.

"I saw him in the World Cup because he stopped our penalties very good and that is why were not in the final, but I remember him especially from my former time and I know what he can do.

"He is a very dominating goalkeeper. His stature is also tall and he gives a lot of confidence to the players.

(Image: FIFA via Getty)

"Of course, he has to learn English because that is also a problem always with a foreigner. He is very good with his feet so he fits in our profile. I have a lot of confidence that he can fulfil what we are expecting."

And Romero himself said: “I am absolutely delighted to join Manchester United. To play for the biggest club in the world is a dream come true for me. Louis van Gaal is a fantastic manager and I cannot wait to get started on this new and exciting challenge in my career.”

United are adamant that they won't let De Gea leave for the Bernabeu unless the deal includes Sergio Ramos.