Paul Pogba staying at United this summer

France international midfielder Paul Pogba is one of the most high-profile players whose name has been linked with a move elsewhere this summer. As always with the summer transfer window, there are big rumours about big players moving elsewhere.

Pogba has added to the weight of the rumours by claiming that he may be ready for a new challenge. Reportedly Pogba is wanted by Juventus and Real Madrid this summer, with reports claiming at the Red Devils value the midfielder in the region of £150million.

The midfielder is staying in Manchester

However, according to Sky Sports, the 26-year-old is set to stay at United this summer, rather than move to one of the European giants. If the story about him staying is true then it could have a big influence on United’s summer business.

Pogba is a big asset both, on and off the pitch. The United hierarchy will reportedly back the Norwegian to a certain extent in the transfer market, but the Red Devils will still need to meet the Financial Fair Play rules. Selling a player of the value of Pogba would certainly help in that respect.

Which Pogba will be at Old Trafford next season?

Paul Pogba is a divisive character when it comes to fans opinions. Some fans believe that he is an overrated show pony, while some seem to believe he is this all-conquering super midfielder, who can single-handedly take on teams by himself.

In my humble opinion, the 26-year-old can be both depending on his mood. During the early days of Solskjaer’s United managerial career, the midfielder thrived in a red shirt. However, in the final few months of the campaign, his form seemed to dip.

When he is not happy, the rumours start to spread that he is unhappy and wants to move. Suddenly there was talk of Real Madrid and Juventus both eying a move for the midfielder. Pogba even stated that playing for the Spanish giant under compatriot Zinedine Zidane would be a dream.

If Pogba is the all-conquering central midfielder that we have seen him be in the past, then United must keep hold of him. However, the likelihood of that Pogba making an appearance if the Red Devils fail to grant him a move is scant.

If he sulks, then Manchester United have a next to useless player on their hands. The 26-year-old only performs when he is in a happy mood it seems. Maybe it would be better if Pogba does move on this summer.

Need top-four at least next season

Manchester United have fallen a long way in recent years. Last season the Red Devils finished sixth place in the table after their second-place finish in the previous season. Their first priority next season is to secure a top-four finish in the Premier League.

Solskjaer’s team are joint-fourth favourites at evens with Chelsea to finish in the Champions League next season. Winning the Premier League title is obviously their long-term objective, to be dominant again in the English top-flight.

However, at this moment in time, they are light years behind reigning champions and city rivals Manchester City and bitter north west rivals Liverpool in their chances of winning the title in the new campaign.

To be honest, I am not sure if keeping Pogba will improve the Red Devils chances of making the top-four or harm them. There is still plenty of time left in the transfer window and I have a feeling we have not heard the last of the speculation over the future of Manchester United’s mercurial French midfielder.

Will Paul Pogba stay at Manchester United this summer?