According to The Sun (via the Express), Tottenham are considering a move for Javier "Chicharito" Hernandez. Per the report, the North London club is preparing an £8 million bid.

Getting in the way of a potential move, however, is the first-ever vote of confidence from manager Louis van Gaal.

"I have long-term expectations, but you never know in this football world," the United boss said when asked about his striker. "But yes, normally I have long-term expectations of Javier Hernandez."

According to the Daily Mail, van Gaal has challenged Hernandez to prove his worth at Old Trafford. With limited first-team options, there will be ample opportunity for him to do so.

"Javier can prove himself again and now [Radamel] Falcao and [Robin] van Persie are gone," van Gaal said. "His chances are better."

Hernandez's chances are bolstered by United's unwillingness to acquire a new striker in the summer transfer window. A rumored surprise signing will not compete for minutes up top.

"I don't know if I want to buy a striker," van Gaal said (via The Guardian). "I have read in the media that a striker is the surprise. No, that I have not said. You are saying that because my answer is like that."

"No, I mean something else."

Two matches remain in United's summer tour—Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain in the International Champions Cup—after which all attention will be turned to the start of the Premier League season.

Ironically enough, the club's first test will be at home against Tottenham—a potential dress rehearsal for Hernandez in front of his future employer.