Andy Cole has claimed that Manchester United will miss out on key transfer targets if they fail to earn a top-four finish in the Premier League this season.

Louis van Gaal's arrival last summer was followed by a £200m spending spree, and the pressure is on the Dutchman to lead the club back to the Champions League after a disappointing campaign under David Moyes.

Despite booking a place in the fifth round of the FA Cup by beating Cambridge United earlier this week, Cole believes that the focus must be on the league form rather than cup success.

"I think most people recognise this is a new Manchester United taking shape, so it's important that the club quickly wins some silverware, and the FA Cup is an ideal opportunity to do so," the former United and England striker told The Mirror.

"If I'm honest, I would view it as a massive bonus this season because, personally, I still think the main objective has to be to finish in the top four in the Premier League in order to qualify for next season's Champions League.

"I think that is the best way to keep enticing top players as the manager continues to shape his squad to try to get where Manchester United are accustomed to being."

United, who currently sit third, face another test of their top-four credentials when they meet West Ham United on Sunday.