MANCHESTER UNITED have reportedly identified Real Madrid star Fede Valverde as a replacement for Paul Pogba.
According to Spanish source Diario Madridista, Uruguay international Valverde is at the top of their wishlist. It is reported that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer plans to rebuild his squad around the 21-year-old.
But his huge £422million release clause could prove problematic for the Premier League side. Zinedine Zidane will be desperate to keep hold of Valverde following his breakthrough season at the Bernabeu.
He has made four assists and scored two goals in 32 appearances for the LaLiga giants this season. The 21-year-old, who joined Madrid’s B team in 2017, is under contract at the club until 2025.
Madrid looked the most likely club to land Pogba this summer as they were heavily linked to him in January.
But Valverde’s impressive spell of form has caused the Spanish giants to cool their interest in the 27-year-old.
Pogba has reportedly made it clear he will be furious if United extend his contract amid interest from Madrid.
The Red Devils have the option to extend his deal by an additional year and with it strengthen their bargaining position when it comes to his exit.
