Former Manchester United defender Paul McGrath believes Cesc Fabregas would have been a player at old Trafford if not for the “lack of the leadership.”

The Spain international was made clear by Barcelona that his services are no longer required at Camp Nou. He was reportedly linked to the Red Devils, Arsenal and Chelsea. However, Arsene Wenger rejected a chance to re-sign the former Gunners skipper.

McGrath, who was at Old Trafford from 1982-89 believes Fabregas would have picked United over Chelsea due to the club’s history.

“I’m sure Cesc Fabregas would have picked Man United [over Chelsea] simply because of the history. Most people believe that United is the biggest club, with the history and everything else,” McGrath told Talksport.

“It is amazing we can’t get these players. I think it is a lack of leadership on the Manchester United side. The club doesn’t need selling because people want to play for them but it is going out there, getting those players, and doing it quick.”

United appointed Louis van Gaal as the successor to David Moyes as the Dutchman came to Old Trafford after guiding Netherlands to a third place finish in the 2014 FIFA World Cup.

McGrath says the Dutchman’s achievement during the summer tournament in Brazil would have helped the Red Devils attract players in the ongoing transfer window.

“I can’t believe this summer, even with Van Gaal away at the World Cup, that they didn’t have things put in place. They seem to be doing business late,” the former Republic of Irelan international stressed.

“Manchester United supporters want to see quality players come into the club, the biggest club in the world, and no one seems to have thought about that.”

One final good news for United fans or I must say some hope is that signing Angel Di Maria could be on the cards after Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti revealed the Argentine international has asked to leave the Spanish capital club.