Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba has been rigorously linked with a move away from Old Trafford in the summer. But, even with the transfer window slamming shut last month, fresh speculations have now suggested that the midfielder could be on his way out to join Barcelona in January.
Some reports have also claimed that the Red Devils could be willing to sell him in the winter transfer window if they can find a suitable replacement. Pogba recently shed some light on his situation at United and was quoted to have said, ‘My future is currently in Manchester,’
‘I still have a contract, I am playing there at the moment, but who knows what will happen in the next few months.’
The France international has made four appearances for the Red Devils this season, scoring two goals in the league so far. However, both of his strikes came from the penalty spot. With his future uncertain at Old Trafford, let’s take a look at three replacements that Jose Mourinho could look to opt for to replace the Frenchman.
Arturo Vidal (Barcelona):
The Chilean midfield veteran is quite experienced and was in excellent form for Bayern Munich in the last few campaigns. However, the 31-year-old decided to make a move to Barcelona this summer in search of greener pastures. If Pogba does end up leaving Man United in favour of a move to the Nou Camp, then Mourinho could ask for a potential player plus cash deal involving Vidal heading the other way. The South American sensation is precisely the kind of talent who can thrive under Mourinho at the heart of the United midfield if the Mancunians decided to opt for his services in January.
Saúl Ñíguez (Atletico Madrid):
The Atletico Madrid midfield dazzler has enjoyed a steady start to this campaign so far and has already put in a match-winning performance for the La Liga side in the UEFA Super Cup final against Real Madrid. At 23, Saul still has his prime years ahead of him which Mourinho’s team could look to benefit from, in the next few years. He will be a perfect replacement for Pogba as he will add a lot of creativity and dynamism to the United midfield.
Marco Verratti (PSG):
The French international has been a constant presence in the Paris Saint-Germain midfield over the last few years and was a regular feature for the French side last season. However, he is currently out injured and is yet to make an appearance for PSG this term. Although Verratti is known for his defensive capabilities, he also has a habit of scoring and creating goals which makes him a decent alternative for Pogba.
