Report: Louis van Gaal pulled the plug on Renato Sanches deal

Bayern Munich announced Tuesday the acquisition of Benfica midfielder Renato Sanches but Manchester United - who had been linked with the Portuguese international throughout the season - had its pursuits ended by instruction from manager Louis van Gaal, reports The Independent.

The Bavarian side completed the €35-million deal earlier in the day despite Manchester United being linked with a significantly richer deal for the 18-year-old. But, the Independent reports that Van Gaal vetoed the deal before making a formal offer.

Van Gaal has had his position as manager of the club undermined amid reports of Jose Mourinho potentially taking over next season.

Sanches was reportedly high on Mourinho's list of targets, but the Red Devils brass has seemingly put their faith in Van Gaal instead, perhaps an early indication that the Dutchman will return to Old Trafford next season.