Manchester United could move early for Paul Pogba’s replacement if his heart is set on leaving next summer.
Amid uncertainty over Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s Manchester United future, the clock continues to tick down on Paul Pogba’s contract. Pogba is currently set to leave United as a free agent for the second time next summer, but his status could depend on Solskjaer’s.
On Fabrizio Romano’s Twitch, Joris Crolbois claimed the 28-year-old is waiting to see if Solskjaer is sacked before deciding on his next move.
Crolbois’ comments suggested Pogba will look to leave if the Norwegian boss is still in charge, amid reports that several senior United players have lost faith in him.
The Frenchman’s exit would leave a significant hole to fill in the Red Devils’ squad, which could prompt an early move to replace him.
Express Sport looks at three midfielders United could make a play for in January if it’s clear Pogba has his heart set on a summer exit.
Franck Kessie
United could pursue a cut-price deal for AC Milan midfielder Frank Kessie, who impressed at Old Trafford in last season’s Europa League.
He is out of contract on the same date as Pogba and could discuss a free transfer in January, but the Red Devils could negotiate an instant arrival for a fee.
Kessie is a tireless, tough-tackling box-to-box midfielder – three traits that could see him thrive in England.
The 24-year-old registered 14 goals and six assists last season and will be the centre of mass interest if he becomes a free agent at the end of the current campaign.
Aurelien Tchouameni
United could push the boat out and try to beat other suitors to Pogba’s France teammate, Aurelien Tchouameni.
The 21-year-old defensive midfielder has risen to stardom for AS Monaco and his national team in recent years.
He played a starring role in France’s recent UEFA Nations League win alongside Pogba in Didier Deschamps’ midfield.
But the tenacious star could be put off if he knows his fellow countryman is exiting the door as soon as he enters.
Youri Tielemans
Alright, this one’s unrealistic given his form this season and importance to Leicester City, but Youri Tielemans could be the perfect fit.
The Belgian ace was linked to United before joining Leicester and has flourished into one of the Premier League’s best midfielders.
Brendan Rodgers reportedly has admirers at Old Trafford and if he was to succeed Solskjaer in the hot seat, he could tempt Tielemans with a mid-season move.
But considering Leicester’s involvement in Europe and high top-flight aspirations, it would surely take an astronomical fee to lure him away.
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