Louis van Gaal has delivered his verdict on Hakim Ziyech amid Manchester United transfer pursuit

Louis van Gaal once described Chelsea attacker Hakim Ziyech as a "special player" amid Erik ten Hag's interest in bringing him to Manchester United.

As reported by the Manchester Evening News, Ten Hag, who will be looking to record his first victory as United manager when his side travels to Brentford on Saturday evening, is keen on being reunited with the Morocco international at Old Trafford. The Dutchman is determined to strengthen his attacking options before the window closes and a new wide player is high on the agenda.

Ziyech worked with Ten Hag at Ajax before leaving the Dutch heavyweights to join Chelsea two years ago. Despite joining the Blues for just north of £33million, the 29-year-old has struggled to live up to expectations, scoring just 14 goals and grabbing 10 assists in 84 appearances.

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United's hierarchy have met Ten Hag's interest in Ziyech with resistance, despite being prepared to back him this summer over his preferred targets. He has often struggled to live up to expectations in England and was left on the bench for Chelsea's Premier League opener at Everton last weekend.

At Ajax, however, the versatile attacker, who can play through the middle or out wide, was often excellent, playing a key role in helping them reach the semi-finals of the Champions League in 2018/19. He was often hailed for his performances and heroics, and deservedly so.

Ziyech also attracted praise from former United manager Van Gaal, who spoke glowingly of him ahead of his move to Chelsea. He described how his improvements as a team player were particularly striking.

"He has developed tremendously at Ajax," Van Gaal, told NOS, speaking