Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has given the strongest indication yet that Radamel Falcao will not stay at Old Trafford next season.

The Dutch manager was asked about the misfiring Colombian, who has struggled ever since his loan arrival on deadline day last summer, and his words offered no crumb of comfort to a player who has struggled with form and fitness for two full seasons now.

Van Gaal confirmed that the 29-year-old has been given ample chance to make his mark, yet failed to do so - though he did soften the blow by suggesting that fortune had played a part.

"Falcao has been given the chance to be in the team this season. You can say he is unlucky – he has the quality to play," said Van Gaal, as reported by the Manchester Evening News.

"I like him and the way he played against Chelsea last week. He was unlucky he didn’t score."

Van Gaal then went on to clarify that there is no animosity between them - but that it would not stop him from waving goodbye, as he has done with other players.

"I like Falcao as a human being, just as I like Danny Welbeck and Chicharito - they are always professional," he added.

"But when you are not in the team for season after season, there comes a time when you need a challenge. "That’s why I have said goodbye to Welbeck and Chicharito. And now I have to talk with Falcao.”

The Manchester Evening News also printed quotes from Monaco chief Vadim Vasilyev, insisting that no decision has yet been taken.

"I saw the Manchester United people last Sunday and they have not yet decided if they would exercise the option," the Russian said.

"It’s not his best season, but they kept the opportunity to make a decision at the end of the season. "We are not in any other negotiations, even if big clubs are interested.

The decision is with Manchester, then we will discuss with the player what he wants.”

OUR VIEW

It's long been clear that this decision is coming, and judging from Van Gaal's words - and most damningly the comparison with the likes of Welbeck - there is now no way back. It's sad to see a once-great talent so dimmed, for the Atletico Madrid-vintage Falcao in full cry really was a sight to see.

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