After losing Paul Pogba for free and later paid Juventus $120 million in 2016 – a record transfer fee, Manchester United could be losing him again as a free agent for the second time.
This could be a terrible situation for the Old Trafford firm with his current deal set to expire in 2022. United recently activated the additional one year option on his current deal as the Frenchman is yet to sit and discuss a new deal with the club. This has led to further speculation about his future at the club again.
Athletic says Pogba is likely to leave United as the France international is reportedly reluctant to renew his contract with the Red Devil. Due to the coronavirus pandemic that has affected clubs’ finances, it is believed that top clubs like Real Madrid and Barcelona that have been linked to the Frenchman have not been coming again.
From the look of things, Pogba will end this season at Old Trafford as an immediate exit does not seem to be in his plan at this time, despite the lack of playing time he has had.
How Manchester United can lose Pogba for free
What is likely to happen that will make Man United not to make a dime on Pogba if both parties fail to reach a new agreement?
The World Cup winner has 18 months left on his present deal. It means if he decides to wait and run down his contract next season without signing a new contract, he will be able to pick a new club on his own terms.
Despite not being a favourite at Old Trafford, Pogba has been playing well in the colours of his country. He played the full 90 minutes for France in Nations League wins over Portugal and Sweden. He showed his vibrancy during both games that prompted his coach Didier Deschamps to describe him as a “top-level player” who is able to both defend and “express himself” when given the opportunity.
“I hope what he did with us will be useful to him when he gets back to his club,” added Deschamps.
It appears Pogba will continue to struggle at Manchester United as he had the same issue during the tenure of Jose Mourinho. He has only been able to play conveniently under Antonio Conte and Juventus.
Head up, look forward! 👊🏾 pic.twitter.com/vtzMEZ7khx
— Paul Pogba (@paulpogba) November 16, 2020
This could be partly because he was given the free role at Juve, which allows him to express himself, as noted by Deschamp. though, the neon has faded.
Despite having congested fixtures, United has only been able to feature Pogba for the full 90 minutes of action twice this season. Unfortunately, on both occasions, he gave away a penalty and United lost at home.
With Ole Gunnar Solksjaer under huge pressure, the Norwegian is not ready to put his job on the line by starting a player he has no confidence in.
Therefore, it won’t be a surprise to see him return to the bench for Saturday’s visit of West Bromwich Albion. This was the same case during the start of league games against Newcastle United, Chelsea and Everton this season.
He could also decide to weigh his options ahead of next year’s Euros and leave Unite again. Leaving early would help the Red Devils some funds.
