The Dutchman is on the verge of joining Manchester United after they thrashed out a A?25million deal with PSV Eindhoven for the 21-year-old winger.
Memphis Depay has his sights set on becoming a Manchester United icon a just like his boyhood hero Cristiano Ronaldo.
Depay became Louis van Gaal’s first signing of the summer when United announced a A?25million deal with PSV Eindhoven to sign the Dutch winger.
The 21-year-old, who scored 25 goals in 39 appearances for PSV this season to help them land the Dutch title, is regarded as one of the most exciting young players in Europe.
Depay’s Dutch team-mate, QPR midfielder Leroy Fer, said this week that United’s newest signing could have the same impact as Ronaldo and become a world-beater at Old Trafford.
Depay, who has the words ‘Dream Chaser’ tattooed across his chest, is determined to realise his ambitions at the Theatre of Dreams and draw comparisons with United legend Ronaldo.
Depay, who wears the No.7 shirt for PSV, may even get to wear that iconic number at United a also worn by Ronaldo a if struggling Angel Di Maria, who currently has it, is sold this summer.
a Dream chaser stands for me chasing my dreams,” said Depay, in reference to his chest art.
“I believe I can be one of the best players in the world and I have to dream and believe to achieve. It’s tattooed on my chest.”
“You just have to work every day on your dreams. My dreams started with going to the World Cup and then when I was there I scored two goals – becoming the youngest ever Dutch goalscorer – and I was very happy.”
“But when the World Cup was finished I realised that was not it. I had to take more on to the pitch – there was more to do.”
“So after the World Cup in pre-season I spoke to my manager and said I have to keep focused. Scoring in the World Cup was good but not the end of it. Now I’m on fire.”
Depay, who rose to prominence at last year’s World Cup in Brazil with goals against Australia and Chile, opted to stay with PSV for one more season, despite interest from Europe’s top clubs.
He revealed Van Gaal went out of his way in Brazil to give him advice on his future, and it was that paternal bond that saw Depay spurn an offer to join Paris St Germain and interest from Liverpool to remain under the guidance of his former Dutch boss.