Robin van Persie has acknowledged that he must "fight for his place" at Manchester United following the deadline-day arrival of Radamel Falcao.

The former Monaco striker made the move to Old Trafford yesterday on a season-long loan, adding to Louis van Gaal's attacking options at United.

Despite the increased competition for a starting spot in the side, Van Persie says that the capture of Falcao can only been seen as a positive.

"I am happy with the arrival of Falcao," Goal.com quotes the Dutchman as saying. "He makes us a better team. You always have to aim for the best at a big club. That's my philosophy as well.

"Falcao has to fight for his place, just like me. The two of us and Wayne Rooney and James Wilson will have to fight it out."

United are currently sitting in 14th place in the Premier League table.