A couple of years ago, following a spat with Jose Mourinho, many thought that a Paul Pogba stay at Old Trafford was a pipedream. Now, it seems like a real possibility…
Manchester United are keen to not make the same mistake as they did with Alexis Sanchez, though.
The story came from ESPN over the weekend, who state that United are ‘keen’ on giving the world-class 27-year-old a new deal. However, it’ll be on their terms and it won’t include a bumper pay-rise.
Pogba’s time in Manchester has been hit and miss. He looked a shadow of his former self under Mourinho, though Ole Gunnar Solskjaer seemed to rekindle that magic initially.
Now, though, the Frenchman has been used as a substitute over the last few games, following a poor run of form from La Pioche.
What’s Pogba’s contractual situation looking like?
Well, Pogba’s current terms were due to expire at the end of this season. However, United have activated a one-year extension clause, meaning his future is secure until the summer of 2022.
That leaves United with a decision to make. Agree an extension with Pogba, sell him in the summer of 2021, or let him leave for free in a couple of years time.
You’d imagine that they won’t want to lose such a marketable player for nothing, so that option is ruled out.
Back in July, we covered a story which stated United were close to agreeing extended terms with Pogba. Obviously, that hasn’t happened and he’s been playing poorly since.
I am pleased to hear that United are looking to learn from their mistakes, though. They don’t want to overpay for a player who isn’t fully committed to the cause.
The problem United may have is actually finding a buyer. Our number six has underwhelmed, while I don’t doubt that the powers-that-be will be looking for somewhere around the £86million which it cost to sign Pogba to let him leave. Is that really feasible in the current climate? I’m not sure.
It’s a finely-balanced situation. For me, my unpopular opinion is that Pogba is doing more harm than good. Currently, he’s bringing very little to the table while I’d like to see Donny van de Beek given a real run in the side.
Ultimately, the decision lies with the manager and I don’t envy the position he’s in. At all…
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