Transfer rumours will always be rumours, especially when first published in the Daily Mail, however, a Manchester United player has reportedly been identified as a possible target for Manchester City.
Pep Guardiola has sounded out Paul Pogba as a possible target in the summer in what could be the most explosive transfer deal in British history. The suggestion of signing for their city rivals is something that is building hype amongst the fanbase and journalists alike.
Pogba would be open to a move across Manchester as the opportunity to play under Guardiola would be too good to turn down. A move that was sounded out by himself and Mino Raiola in the negotiations for Erling Haaland.
🌖| Manchester City are considering signing Paul Pogba on a free transfer when the Frenchman’s deal expires at rivals Manchester United in the summer. The Guardian understands Pogba is open to crossing the city.
— City Zone (@City_Zone_) May 6, 2022
[@Will_Unwin/@guardian_sport]
The World Cup winner is out of contract in the summer and is almost certain to leave Old Trafford for a second time after an indifferent period since completing his £89 million move back in 2016. A number of clubs are also after his services with Real Madrid, Juventus and Paris Saint Germain all reportedly battling it out.
City will have to wait until the end of the season, however, should it be the Frenchman’s favoured move then no team is likely to steal a march on his signature prior to any negotiations at the Etihad.
A rumoured four-year contract for a 29-year-old seems wide of the truth, especially City’s transfer record on older players. However, his representatives have always pulled a good deal out of the bag for their client.
Fans are already reacting to the news with a mixed reaction, however, the majority agree with the move and will him to get playing back to his potential.
Please let these Paul Pogba rumours be true. I really hope he comes City on a free after scum spent £89M to resign him. He’s a baller.
— Younus (@you_76s) May 6, 2022
Paul Pogba wants a move to city now? Honestly I'd take him. If anyone is going to unlock his Juve version again, it's Pep. ( Klopp can do it as well)
— General Snu-Snu (@whoisatema) May 6, 2022
Fernandinho’s departure has left Pep looking at options to bring into midfield with Aurélien Tchouaméni, Declan Rice and Frenkie de Jong also sounded out as possible signings once the Haaland deal is complete. The Norwegian striker remains number one priority for Ferran Soriano and Txiki Begiristain.
Pogba certainly matches the ability with the other targets but questions over his attitude and defensive abilities may make him a risk too much.
A move, should it happen, that will likely fill a Manchester billboard nicely for part two of ‘Welcome to Manchester’ and greeted by the majority of City fans given their faith in the manager’s guidance with star players.