The news linking Paul Pogba with a switch to local rivals Manchester City upon his contract expiry in the summer was the latest in a harrowing period for fans of Manchester United.
United’s noisy neighbours were reported to be interested in acquiring the contract rebel, with the Frenchman not objected to the idea.
However, reports surfacing on Monday have put an abrupt stop to the rumours. David Ornstein at the Athletic writes that Pogba has ‘opted against joining City’, favouring a package offered by another club.
🚨 EXCL: Paul Pogba will not be joining Man City. 29yo seriously considered offer but opted against + his camp have told #MCFC. Favours whole package at another club: #Juve, #PSG, #RMFC currently main contenders - no final decision yet @TheAthleticUK #MUFC https://t.co/tx8kUxjLkF
— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) May 9, 2022
Ornstein further claims that the Frenchman was offered a ‘flattering’ proposal by the current Premier League table-toppers despite having played through the ranks at United.
Former club Juventus alongside Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid have been listed as potential landing spots, with a resolve to the debacle still not clear.
Manchester City are thought to be in the market for a central midfielder following the announcement of long-time servant Fernandinho’s departure.
Whether Paul Pogba’s profile suits that of a replacement for the Brazilian is unclear, but the 29-year-old was a defined candidate as per the same report.
Starting his career with then-Ligue 1 team Le Havre, the 2018 World Cup winner first joined United in 2009, aged 16.
While his commitment and consequent impact has never wavered on the international stage, Pogba’s form has oscillated during his second spell in the North-West.
Fall-outs, fraught managerial relationships and a perceived attitude problem have defined his time at United since re-signing for a world-record fee of £89.3m.
Paul Pogba is currently sidelined with a calf injury and whether he will turn out again in the red of Manchester United is unclear.