Brighton fought off TWELVE rival Championship clubs to land England under-21 ace Wilson, 19, who burst onto the scene by scoring twice on his United debut against Hull last year.
Wilson has been restricted to only one substitute appearance in the league this term and was hauled off at half time by Van Gaal in United's Capital One Cup defeat to Middlesbrough.
The teenager was an unused substitute as the Red Devils laboured to a dour goalless draw against PSV Eindhoven in their crunch Champions League clash on Wednesday.
Sections of the Old Trafford crowd have been calling for Van Gaal to give Wilson, who played 17 games last season, a chance after seeing their side struggle in front of goal.
Wilson will make his Brighton debut against Birmingham on Saturday and Seagulls boss Chris Hughton said: "We have been keen to add another striker and James has been our number one target for some time.
"He is an exciting young striker and is very highly thought of at Old Trafford. I hope this will be a good move for all parties."
