The QPR midfielder backs his Netherlands international team-mate to take the Premier League by storm and believes that Louis van Gaal is the perfect coach for his development

Manchester United’s incoming signing Memphis Depay can be as good as Cristiano Ronaldo, according to Leroy Fer.

The 21-year-old, who is set to finalise a move to Old Trafford after PSV and United announced an agreement, is already being compared to the Real Madrid star and three-time Ballon d’Or winner.

And Fer is backing his young countryman to follow in the footsteps of the Portuguese attacker and make a huge impact in Manchester.

“He won’t be scared and that’s what I like about him. He will enjoy the comparison with Ronaldo and he will be a big player,” the Dutch midfielder told reporters.

“He’s not as tall as Ronaldo but he’s very talented, he’s strong, he’s quick, he’s got the skills and he can score goals. He’s a massive player and he’s going to be big in Manchester.

“Of course he has to adapt to the Premier League and United are one of the biggest clubs but I don’t think it’s going to be hard for him because he’s a very confident player.

“Ronaldo is a bigger player than him right now because of what he’s done but Memphis is only 21 and, if he can be as good as Ronaldo was at United, he is going to be a big player. I think he can be.”

Fer, relegated with QPR on Sunday, believes that Depay has chosen the perfect environment to continue his development and will learn from United’s host of world-class players.

“I have known him two or three years now with the national team and he asked me what the Premier League is like,” the midfielder continued.

“I told him it’s a hard league but, for him, with his ability and skills, I think he can play a massive part for United. Playing with stars like Wayne Rooney and Angel Di Maria will be great for him and will make him better for sure.

“Of course, he has two team-mates from the national team there already in Robin van Persie and Daley Blind so that will help. He knows Louis van Gaal too and he will make him a better player as well.”