Paul Pogba has turned down the opportunity to resume his career at a Premier League club, it has been reported.
The Frenchman will return to football in March after serving a doping ban, which was reduced to 18 months from four years on appeal at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
He was suspended four years in 2023 after an initial sample taken after a game against Udinese showed DHEA - a compound that promotes the production of hormones in the body including testosterone - in his system.
In response, Pogba denied 'knowingly or deliberately taking any supplements that violate anti-doping regulations' and stressed he would appeal the verdict.
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Days after his ban was reduced, the 31-year-old agreed to terminate his contract with Juventus with immediate effect.
That means he is now a free agent and, crucially, can be registered by a new club at any time ahead of his return to competition next year.
Spanish outlet Fichajes report that he is carefully considering his options - and has already turned down one Premier League club.
It is claimed that Pogba has rejected a move to Newcastle, with the Magpies having been keen on making the Frenchman one of their marquee signings in January.
The report adds that Pogba is 'leaning towards other destinations to revive his career'.
He is yet to speak out about his search for a new club, but did conduct an interview with Sky Sports after his appeal verdict was announced.
Pogba said: "Where would I like to play? On the pitch! I would love to be on the pitch. Any pitch. It's tough training alone.
"The main focus is to get back training and fit, to be on the pitch and do what I love. My vision is to show I am a footballer. A new Paul Pogba with the same qualities. I am still ready."
Topics: Paul Pogba, Transfers, Premier League
Ryan Smart