Manchester United fans could be made to regret their rocky relationship with Paul Pogba. The Frenchman, now with Juventus, is in a perfect position to sting his former employers after the Italian giants entered the race for Jean-Clair Todibo – a player reportedly on Erik ten Hag’s transfer wish list.
World Cup winner Pogba is one of the most celebrated midfielders of his generation at international level. But two spells at Man Utd failed to bring him the same adoration from fans, with many believing that his performances and attitude were not up to scratch.
Pogba left Old Trafford on a free transfer in 2022 after the club refused to meet his lofty wage demands. The 30-year-old could take out any lingering frustration on United this summer by influencing Todibo’s future.
Reports indicate that Ten Hag and co are keen on the centre-back, who could be a much-needed reinforcement if Harry Maguire leaves during the summer window.
According to RMC Sport, Juventus have now entered the running by making contact with OGC Nice. Now in his second spell at Juve, Pogba is perfectly placed to talk his compatriot through life in Serie A and sway him towards Turin.
Successfully doing so would whittle down United’s centre-back transfer options with less than a month to go before the window shuts. No bids are believed to have landed for Todibo, who is valued by Nice at £26million.
Juventus have a headstart on United if they decide to move promptly for Todibo. The Red Devils are still tied up in concluding Rasmus Hojlund’s £72m arrival, with recruiting a new midfielder expected to be next on the to-do list.
Jonny Evans has made a surprise return to Old Trafford over the summer, and it remains to be seen whether agreeing a one-year deal – which is still a possibility – prevents Ten Hag from going after another defender.