Morgan Schneiderlin has to fight Bastian Schweinsteiger for Manchester United midfield place, says Louis van Gaal

Manchester United manager says competition for positions will be tough following influx of players

Bastian Schweinsteiger and Morgan Schneiderlin have joined Manchester United (Manchester United)

Louis van Gaal has warned his summer signings that they will have to 'fight' one another to prove who is worthy of a starting place for Manchester United.

The Old Trafford supremo has brought in Morgan Schneiderlin, Bastian Schweinsteiger, Memphis Depay and Matteo Darmian this summer for £75m, but despite such an outlay, none are guaranteed a place in his side.

"The players have to fight," warned the Dutchman, who is with his squad on their pre-season tour of the United States.

“Schneiderlin has to fight with Schweinsteiger, Michael Carrick and Daley Blind.

“These are the players who can play in the centre of midfield.

“Darmian has to fight with Antonio Valencia for the right-back role.

“He knows that, but Valencia knows that also.

“Carrick knows it also, because at the end of the season I have told him.”

Morgan Schneiderlin, Louis van Gaal, Bastian Schweinsteiger and Matteo Darmian (Getty Images)

Other players may find they need to prove themselves with more arrivals expected before the close of the transfer window.

A central defender remains a high priority, with interest in Sergio Ramos ongoing and reports that Nicolas Otamendi could be set to arrive. A new striker has also become a necessity following the departures of Robin van Persie and Radamel Falcao.

Plus, the assertion from Van Gaal that Victor Valdes will be sold means that if David De Gea departs the club, a new goalkeeper will be required.