Manchester United transfer news: Barcelona considering January move for Paul Pogba after latest dispute
Although United still view the 25-year-old’s marketability as a huge asset, he is no longer seen as completely unsellable
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Barcelona are monitoring Paul Pogba’s uncertain situation at Manchester United, with a January move said by sources to now be much more possible.
The Catalan club have had an interest in the midfielder for some time, and have maintained regular contact with his agent, Mino Raiola.
The Barca hierarchy had, however, been willing to sit on a medium-term Philippe Coutinho-style strategy to eventually extract the player, but have been made well aware of ongoing problems between Pogba and manager Jose Mourinho.
While the Wednesday issue that brought so much controversy has now been “fully sorted”, with Mourinho accepting it was just a misunderstanding, there is still a huge distance between the two figures that others at United see as unresolvable.
United sources had previously felt Pogba might be satisfied if Mourinho were to leave, but that stance has now shifted, as there is an increasing acceptance the player - and Raiola - would want a Barca move regardless.
Although United still view the 25-year-old’s marketability as a huge asset, he is no longer seen as completely unsellable, and the club would consider a good bid. Some have floated a price of £140m.
Whether Barca can rise to that level - especially mid-season - is another issue. They are restricted by a huge wage bill, but are being increasingly persuaded of the merits of moving for the player in January, with that marketability being pointed out to them.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments