The Paul Pogba situation is far from under control at the Old Trafford. But the Red Devils have shortlisted a Barcelona star if the Frenchman departs.
Barcelona has a jam-packed midfield right now but that has not stopped them from pursuing a move for the World Cup winner. A rumor which only started as Pogba’s weapon for a contract renewal and Mourinho’s attention has turned into a serious one in the last few weeks.
€100M for the 19-Year old?
According to the reports in Don Balon, Manchester United want to bring La Masia’s promising midfielder Riqui Puig, if Pogba decides to leave. But the 19-year old has a release clause of €100M, which will make life difficult for United.
Yet to make his debut for the first team, Puig is a totally unknown name for United fans. But the Spaniard has impressed the board members and Ernesto Valverde at Barcelona after his pre-season performances. The midfielder’s ability to keep his composure with the ball at his feet and trademark La Masia style of passing makes him a valuable presence in the middle of the field.
Paul Pogba opened Manchester United’s account for a new season with a penalty against Leicester City last week. But the Frenchman’s post-match comments suggested that all is not well between him and Jose, despite the manager’s repeated buttering-up attempts. The Frenchman has been since heavily linked with a move to Barcelona but the Catalans are yet to make any official bid for him.
Puig, on the other hands, is already considered a crucial part of Barcelona’s future. The youngster trains with the first squad most of the times. Ernesto Valverde even promised to give him a few chances in the first team this season.
United are expected to reject all the interests for Pogba in August as they cannot sign a replacement right now. But the Catalans can still swoop in until 31st August, the transfer deadline for La Liga.
Author’s Take:
This might not go down well with EPL fans, but Barcelona should secure Riqui Puig’s future rather than chasing Pogba. The youngster has graduated from La Masia and knows how the Catalans work. He is the one Barcelona need for the future with the Barca playing style. As for Pogba, where will he play if they sign him? There’s not even room left on the bench now!
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