ZCZC
BSP-22
FBL-ENG-PR-MANUTD-POGBA
Pogba says ‘timing right’ for summer United exit
TOKYO, June 16, 2019 (BSS/AFP) – Paul Pogba has given the strongest
indication yet that he wants to leave Manchester United this summer to seek a
“new challenge”.
The French World Cup winner rejoined United from Juventus for a then world
record œ89 million ($112 million) fee three years ago, but has largely failed
to live up to expectations.
Pogba has been linked with a move to Real Madrid or a return to Juventus
with United having failed to qualify for the Champions League next season.
“There is a lot of talking and a lot of thinking,” the 26-year-old told
reporters in Tokyo on Sunday.
“I have been for three years in Manchester and have been doing great —
some good moments and some bad moments, like everybody and like everywhere
else.
“I think for me it could be a good time to have a new challenge somewhere
else. I am thinking of this — to have a new challenge somewhere else.”
Despite scoring 16 goals this season, half of which came from the penalty
spot, Pogba was often criticised for his contribution under both Jose
Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as United limped to a sixth-placed finish
in the Premier League.
Should Pogba move on, United are likely to seek a higher fee than they
spent on the midfielder in 2016.
Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane has expressed an interest in bringing
his countryman to the Spanish capital, while Juve are said to be looking to
slash their wage bill in order to lure Pogba back to Turin.
The summer overhaul in the transfer market at Old Trafford has already
begun with the signing of Welsh winger Daniel James from Swansea for an
initial œ15 million ($19 million) fee this week.
The Red Devils have also been linked with bids for defenders Harry Maguire
and Issa Diop and Newcastle midfielder Sean Longstaff.
BSS/AFP/BZC/2040HRS