Could Pogba return to Old Trafford?
Despite letting him go on a free transfer in 2012, Manchester United are readying an astronomical £60m bid for Juventus and France sensation Paul Pogba, reports the Express.
The story claims that United were in advanced negotiations to sign Pogba when David Moyes was in charge last season, and new incoming manager Louis van Gaal has given his blessing for the club to still pursue the deal.
Due to large wage demands, United let Pogba leave Old Trafford on a free transfer when he was just 19-years-old, and it’s a decision the club’s hierarchy will no doubt massively regret.
Since joining Juventus, Pogba has established himself as one of the best young midfielders on the planet.
Not only is he incredibly strong, combative and dynamic – but he has the technical ability to dictate tempo and retain possession in tight areas. What’s more, he can also get forward and score and assist goals – as his nine strikes from last term prove.
Pogba is only 21-years-old, meaning Juventus will need to receive one of the biggest transfers fee of all time to even consider parting ways with their prized asset.
While United would be completely admitting their mistake in letting Pogba leave in the first place if they did make Juventus a serious offer – the signing would please supporters enormously.
The Red Devils midfield is crying out for improvements, with Ryan Giggs retired, Michael Carrick increasingly immobile, and doubts over the long-term suitability of Marouane Fellaini and Darren Fletcher.
Pogba would add the physicality and the guile the team is crying out for. While targeting the nine-cap French international is ambitious, United need to make a statement of intent after last term’s 7th placed finish.
If United do fail to secure a deal for Pogba, it’s likely that they’ll move for his Serie A rival Kevin Strootman in January. The Roma midfielder plays for van Gaal in the Dutch national side, although injuries curtailed his season and will see him miss the World Cup too.
If the 24-year-old proves he is over his injury problems during the first half of next term though, a £30m January bid from Old Trafford will be expected.
COMMENTS