No surprise.
For the second time in seven years, it appears that Paul Pogba wants to leave Manchester United.
The French midfielder was named in the PFA team of the year for his displays between late-December and early March.
However, over the last six weeks, his form has fallen off a cliff and rumours have begun circulating that he wants out of Old Trafford for the second time in his career.
According to Miguel Delaney, writing in The Independent, Pogba is “very keen” to depart Man United this summer and wants to sign for Real Madrid. The report states that Pogba feels that the club will not challenge for the league title in the immediate future, and this has led to him considering his future.
Pogba, who turned 26 last month, reportedly does not want to spend the best years of his career waiting to win the big trophies. The midfielder has been linked with a return to Juventus, but it appears Madrid is his preferred destination. Zinedine Zidane is said to be a fan of Pogba.
Man United broke the world transfer record to bring Pogba back to Old Trafford in August 2016. However, the report claims that the club are now open to the possibility of selling him if their valuation of €130m is met.
It appears that a sale would suit all parties. Man United would make a profit on a player who seemingly wants to leave and can reinvest the funds as they attempt a much-needed rebuild of their squad. It also seems that few United fans would mourn Pogba’s loss.
In the 12 Premier League games after Ole Gunnar Solskjaer replaced Jose Mourinho, Pogba scored eight goals and registered six assists. In the seven league games since, he has scored just two goals – both of which were penalties – and hasn’t registered an assist.