According to the latest reports from ESPN, Real Madrid are increasingly confident about landing Paul Pogba in this transfer window. United are said to be holding on to the price of €180m, but Madrid feels that they can come to an agreement.
Zidane is known to be an admirer of the French midfielder. The midfielder’s agent Mino Raiola tried to push for a move away from the club earlier, and even the World Cup winner admitted that he is looking for new challenges. However, Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjær has been quite firm in his approach to keep hold of Pogba this season.
Madrid have sold the likes of Mateo Kovacic, Marcos Llorente and Theo Hernandez for a decent fee in this window and they recently allowed Gareth Bale to leave as well. James Rodriguez could also be sold this summer, and the Colombian would also attract a fee around €40m. Therefore that could mean that the Galacticos might be able to afford Pogba.
However, one obstacle for Real Madrid could be time. United are only going to sell Pogba if they can find his replacement. Premier League clubs can sign players up until the 8th of August so Zidane will have to move in swiftly for Pogba if he wants him in this window. Once the transfer window closes on 8th, it is highly unlikely that the Manchester heavyweights would even listen to massive offers.
How can Pogba fit in at Real Madrid?
Madrid had a miserable last campaign, and that has reflected in their transfer business as they have spent over €300m in this transfer window. It is clear that the club wants to get back its glory and a player like Pogba can be a highly influential figure in midfield.
With Modric already being 33 and Kroos close to reaching his thirties, Pogba will be a much more long term option. Moreover, he can be a replacement for someone like James Rodriguez or even Asensio as the Spaniard is set to miss the next season due to injury. Pogba is well adept in playing as a no. 8 or a no. 10. His strength, passing vision and ability to go on marauding runs can make him a player to watch out for.
Worth the price?
€180m seems like a massive figure, and Real Madrid should probably try to negotiate and bring it somewhere down to €150m range. However, if Perez and Zidane want the Frenchman, then no figure can be too much for them.
