Reports in Italy claim that Manchester United have turned down a Juventus bid for Paul Pogba, which involved two players swapping Turin for Old Trafford.
Italian outlet CalcioMercato report that Juventus have offered Aaron Ramsey and Douglas Costa in their initial negotiations, but the Premier League giants have no interest in that duo.
Juventus have long been linked with a bid to bring back 'Il Polpo Paul', the midfield star who left them to return to Old Trafford for £89.3 million in 2016. The 27-year-old was a popular and successful player in Turin, while his spell at United has proved largely frustrating.
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The player's outspoken agent, Mino Raiola, reportedly said: "I can say that it's over for Paul Pogba at Manchester United" in December.
However the club have remained silent on whether they will listen to offers for the World Cup winner, who is contracted to United until 2022, during this transfer window or in the summer.
What's clear is that United will only let Pogba go in return for a substantial sum of money or an exchange for a player (or players) they truly want.
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Wales international Ramsey and Brazil winger Douglas Costa apparently don't fit into that category. It makes sense as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side do not lack for attacking midfield talent and probably require defensive reinforcement as much as anything in their squad.
Whether Pogba is seen as a crucial part of United's Premier League title challenge is a tricky one gauge. Even after returning from his early season injury niggles, Pogba did not seem to be in United's first-choice starting XI a month ago.
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However he has come into the team for recent games, as results have improved. Solskjaer's team are currently level on points with champions Liverpool at the top of the Premier League table.
The financial implications of the coronavirus pandemic and the loss of matchday income may mean no side can offer United the price they would want for Pogba in 2021.
So a loan or player exchange could well be the way forward if the France superstar really is heading for the exit. But Juventus apparently haven't found the right player to offer yet.
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We hear the Juve No 7 isn't bad and has a solid reputation on the red side of Manchester, mind you. Might be worth offering him next time and seeing what the response is.
All imagery: PA Images
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