Paul Pogba

[Socrates 8296]

 

Madrid deny Pogba bid

 
May 28, 2015

Real Madrid have released a statement denying that they have made a bid for Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba.

The Merengues were responding to claims from newspaper La Stampa today that they were willing to pay Pogba €10m a year over five seasons, making him one of the club’s biggest earners.

However, Madrid have sought to dampen the rumours by releasing an official club statement in response.

"Following the reports published in the Italian newspaper “La Stampa” concerning an alleged offer from Real Madrid for the player Paul Pogba, the club wishes to state the following," read the statement.

"Real Madrid have had no contact either with Juventus or the player’s agent and, as a consequence, the reports published in this newspaper are completely false".

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Barcelona Intensify Talks For Pogba

 
May 29, 2015

The transfer saga surrounding midfielder Paul Pogba seems to be reaching a climax with Spanish media reporting that Barcelona are set to step up their efforts to acquire the player.

The France International’s supreme form this season has seen him linked with moves to Real Madrid, Barcelona and Manchester City.

However, Catalan sports daily Sport reports that Barcelona have intensified talks with the 22-year-old’s agent, Mino Raiola, for a possible transfer in the summer of 2016.

However, it is suggested that while the transfer ban could leave Juventus inclined to sell Pogba to Barcelona, there could be several obstacles in the way, namely the price tag of the player, which could be upwards of €80 million.

In addition, it is believed Pogba will only settle for a salary which would make him the second highest player at the club behind talisman Lionel Messi, with the club said to be reluctant to heed to the starlet’s wishes.

Nevertheless, the Blaugrana seem to be in the front-seat to sign Pogba after Real Madrid were forced to deny rumours that they had already made an offer for the France International.

“Real Madrid have had no contact either with Juventus or the player’s agent and, as a consequence, the reports published in this newspaper are completely false,” a statement from the club read.

Juventus are currently preparing for their final Serie A outing with an away fixture against Hellas Verona on Saturday, before facing Barcelona in the Champions League in Berlin on June 6.

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Juventus Dismiss Latest Paul Pogba Rumours

 
May 30, 2015

Juventus remain adamant reported Barcelona transfer target Paul Pogba will not leave the club during the summer window, meeting persistent rumours linking the player with a move to Spain head-on.

The Catalans have been linked with a move for the young midfielder for some time now, and according to L'Equipe (h/t AFP's Tom Williams), the Blaugrana would be willing to loan Pogba back to Juventus to work around the transfer embargo they face this summer:

Tom Williams ✔@tomwfootball
L'Equipe: Paul Pogba has told advisers he wants to join Barcelona or Real Madrid. Says Barca would have to loan him out due to transfer ban.

Juventus director Beppe Marotta told Sky Sport Italia (h/t Football Italia) a summer move is out of the question, however, saying:

He is a player who had a positive transformation in a very short space of time. Juventus are accustomed to winning and to achieving their targets.

Pogba is not just a valuable asset for the club, but is also a player who we need to achieve these objectives.

The transfer guru spoke to reporters to confirm the club is close to signing former Real Madrid midfielder Sami Khedira, and his arrival has only helped spark rumours surrounding the future of Pogba.

The 22-year-old has developed into one of the best central midfielders in the world during his time with Juventus, and his excellent play has been noted.

Reporters continue to release stories linking the France international with just about every top club in Europe, and things have gotten so bad Real Madrid were even forced to release a statement denying the news, per Sky Sports (for FOX Soccer):

FOX Soccer ✔@FOXSoccer
Real Madrid deny making approach for Juventus star Pogba

Blessed with an impressive physique, great athleticism and vision and technique that defies his age, Pogba has been one of Juventus' most consistent midfield performers. The Bianconeri use him alongside Arturo Vidal, giving Andrea Pirlo two physical bodyguards as he distributes play.

But Pogba does more than boss opponents around physically. He more than holds his own in the passing game and has a knack for scoring outrageous goals from distance.

The Bianconeri are understandably desperate to hold onto him for as long as possible, and Gianluca Di Marzio's David Amoyal believes he will stay for at least one more season:

duke of kitaleshire @Nimrodchege
@davidamoyal any players leaving juve

David Amoyal @DavidAmoyal
@Nimrodchege maybe Pirlo and Llorente, there is momentum for Pogba staying- I think he will

An extended stay makes sense for both parties, as Pogba will be expected to lead France during Euro 2016 and might prefer to stay in a familiar environment, where he could prepare in peace.

Coupled with Barcelona's transfer ban, another season in Turin for Pogba might just be the perfect scenario. The Catalans can sign players and loan them back to their former club until the transfer embargo passes, but such a formula is incredibly complicated.

Players will probably prefer a straight sale, and if Pogba is open to joining Barcelona, there's no harm in waiting another season.

Will Pogba leave Juventus in 2015?
Yes
47.5%
No
52.5%
Total votes: 59

The youngster has proven his worth, and he'll have a chance to do so again when Juventus and Barcelona meet in the Champions League final on June 6, but Euro 2016 should be his grand audition to all interested clubs.

If he shines without the help of Vidal, Pirlo, Claudio Marchisio and Roberto Pereyra, there will be no more questions regarding his potential and standing as arguably the top young player on the planet.

Pogba won't be a straight replacement for Xavi, but he has the technical savvy to be a success in Barcelona's system based around possession and quick passing. Add in the threat of the long shot, and the Blaugrana would become an even more dangerous and versatile team with the Frenchman patrolling the centre of the pitch.

[Socrates 8296]

 

Cheslea Join Race For Juventus Star

 
Jun 1, 2015

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho is reportedly keen on making Juventus’ Paul Pogba his big summer transfer.

Pogba has been subject to wide speculation that he will leave Turin this summer and it seems that Chelsea have join the race to sign the 22 year old.

According to La Stampa, Chelsea are willing to offer a huge sum in order to purchase the French international.

It is thought that Chelsea would be willing to pay in excess of €80 million for Pogba.

The Premier League would not be foreign for Pogba as he spent three years at Manchester United although he only made three appearances for the senior side.

Pogba is not the only Juventus midfielder who could be leaving the Italian champions this summer.

There has been growing reports that Arturo Vidal will also move in the coming transfer window with Real Madrid a likely destination.

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Pirlo: Manchester United need Pogba

The young midfielder left Old Trafford for Turin on a free when his contract expired
in 2012 and his elder team-mate believes he can now go on to become the best in Europe.

 
Jun 2, 2015

Juventus' Andrea Pirlo believes Manchester United need Paul Pogba in their midfield, and says he does not understand why they let him leave in the first place.

Pogba left United for Turin when his contract expired in 2012, supposedly after growing frustrated with a lack of first-team opportunities, and has since blossomed into a key player for the Italian league and cup champions.

Pirlo and Pogba will line up alongside each other in the Champions League final against Barcelona on Saturday and the Italian insists United's loss is Juve's gain.

"If he carries on the way he is, then he will become the greatest midfield player in Europe - and at his age he could have that title for a long time," Pirlo told The Mirror.

"I don’t understand why Manchester United let him go. If you look at their midfield now they could really use a player like him. It might have been a personal issue for Alex Ferguson, because it is clearly nothing to do with ability.

"Pogba has never really talked about the situation, but whatever the reasons he left, it has been great news for Juventus."

The veteran midfielder also took time to praise former United midfielder Paul Scholes: "I have been so fortunate to have played with so many incredible players throughout my career, but if I could pick one that I never got the chance to play with, it would be Paul Scholes.

"One of the all-time greats. A genius on the field, but private - no circus around him off it. I have a lot of respect for him."

[Socrates 8296]

 

Why Barcelona will be praying
that Pogba stays at Juventus

The Frenchman is the most sought-after star in world football,
but the Blaugrana will be hoping he goes nowhere fast.

 
Jun 3, 2015

By Kris Voakes | International Football Correspondent

In Italy he’s ‘Mr €100 million’, while in Spain he’s the hottest prospect on the market. But on Saturday night he will be one of 22 footballers lining up for potentially the biggest moment of his career.

Paul Pogba has seemed destined for greatness ever since he immediately stamped his mark on the Juventus first team after arriving from Manchester United. Less than three years on, he will play in a Champions League final this weekend and is set to be Europe's most sought-after star this summer.

But while he gets set to take on Barcelona in Berlin, the Catalan side might well have an even bigger say in his future. For while he was previously the subject of much speculation relating to Real Madrid, it is the Spanish champions who now appear the most likely to extricate the Frenchman from Juventus.

After La Stampa had claimed Madrid had solidified their interest in him with a bid, los Blancos were quick to deny having made any approach. A club statement insisted: “Real Madrid have had no contact either with Juventus or the player's agent and, as a consequence, the reports published in this newspaper are completely false.”

And the repeated presence of Barca sporting director Ariedo Braida around Juventus in the first half of 2015 – most recently at their team hotel in Milan ahead of the May victory over Inter – has raised the possibility of a move to Catalunya for the 22-year-old. Braida is said to have met with Juventus counterpart Beppe Marotta on a number of occasions, but more in depth talks are only likely to be held once Barcelona's presidential elections have taken place on July 26.

One stumbling block, of course, is Barcelona’s current transfer ban. The four-time European champions cannot register any new players during the summer period due to a two-window suspension for signing underage foreign players.

That rules out a possible move for Pogba until January 2016 at the earliest, and the following summer as a more likely target. Goal’s sources in Spain suggest Barcelona will spend the next year trying to bargain their way into the position of a preferred buyer, but that relies on Pogba remaining happy in Turin for another year.

With Xavi departing for Qatar in the coming weeks and Andres Iniesta now 31, Barcelona are known to be looking at options to strengthen their midfield department. While Ilkay Gundogan would become a target should the Blaugrana manage to have their ban overturned, the longer-term project appears to be a move for Pogba.

The player’s agent, Mino Raiola, is notorious for his ability to generate interest in his star players. The likes of Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Mario Balotelli have become known for their attractiveness in the market, with the Italy-born representative having been key to several lucrative moves for both players.

Should Pogba wish to leave Juve this summer, Raiola is sure to find an interested club. The Frenchman is said to be very happy where he is right now, though, and that can only work in Barca’s favour for the time being.

Juventus, however, have no preferred buyer. The Bianconeri insist they would not look to sell the player unless a bid of a phenomenal level is received, leading to speculation that it would take a €100m offer for them to part with the midfielder. Whatever the wiggle room that might be negotiated, it is clear that very few clubs across the world would be able to challenge Barcelona if it came to an auction.

Speaking to reporters at Juventus’ press day on Monday ahead of this weekend’s final, Pogba responded to talk of a move to Barcelona with a straight bat but admitted it would be a huge moment for him to take to the field alongside Lionel Messi.

“Playing with Messi would be a dream come true,” he admitted. “He’s the best player in the world. I love watching Barcelona play, but I also love watching them lose.”

But the chances of Pogba and Messi stepping on the pitch together on a far more regular basis in years to come may well be dictated by Juventus’ ability to keep the Frenchman happy for the duration of the summer window.

If Pogba remains with the Bianconeri when time is called on transfer activity at the beginning of September it could be just as big a victory for Barcelona as it will be for Juventus.

[Socrates 8296]

 

Pogba can define an era at Juventus, says Trezeguet

The former France international has urged the midfielder to stay
at the club and says Massimiliano Allegri can exploit Barcelona's weaknesses.

 
Jun 3, 2015

Former Juventus striker David Trezeguez says Paul Pogba should stay at the club and become a defining figure in their modern history.

The France international has been linked with a mega-money summer move to a number of Europe's top clubs, including Juve's Champions League final opponents Barcelona.

Trezeguet, however, believes the Serie A champions will construct a team around the midfielder for the coming years and thinks the 22-year-old would be best served staying put.

"Paul Pogba, in relation to his age, is impressive. He has technical qualities, speed and he is very well placed on the pitch. He has an exceptional level," he told RMC.

"In a short time, he showed his qualities. He became the most important player of the club. He also gained confidence. He is appreciated a lot by his team-mates. He is aware that he is at a club that protects him a lot and he can mark the club's history. The arrival of Patrice Evra helped him a lot through the advice he's given.

"I have not spoken to him about his future. We [Trezeguet and Juve directors] tried to leave him alone so he could heal after his injury. Now, he finds himself in the final of the Champions League. Things will be put in place after that.

"But he's aware that he's with a top-level club with great ambition, and we'll continue to progress from last season. We want to become the club we were before.

"My advice to him is to stay. He could mark the history of Juventus. The club can build around him and we are already working on it. He knows all that."

Trezeguet acknowledges Barcelona are favourites for Saturday's clash in Berlin but has backed Massimiliano Allegri to exploit the weaknesses within the Liga champions' set-up.

"We are aware that we're facing 'the team to beat', but we are also aware that we've shown our qualities during this season," said the former France striker.

"It'll be a tough game, but we know we will play hard to try to win the treble. Barca are favourites but, historically, we've often put Spanish teams in difficulty.

"We know that, against Lionel Messi and others, it will be very difficult. But we have a coach who works on all the details and we will try to take advantage of their weaknesses. There are not many, but they are there."

Meanwhile, Barca transfer chief Ariedo Braida has refused to comment on any potential signings given that the clash is just three days away.

"I can't say anything right now, especially on the doorstep of the Champions League final," he told Sportalia. "It would be bad professionalism if I started talking now about transfers and players from an opponent."

[Socrates 8296]

 

'Champions League final could be Pogba's
last game for Juventus' - Agent

Mino Raiola says that while the Bianconeri do not want to sell, the French
"work of art" will leave Turin if another lcub makes a big enough bid.

 
Jun 5, 2015

Paul Pogba's agent has revealed that Saturday's Champions League final could be the midfielder's last appearance in a Juventus shirt.

The France international is one of the most sought-after players in world football, with Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona, Real Madrid, Manchester City, Manchester United and Chelsea all interested in signing him.

Juventus have repeatedly stated their determination to hold onto Pogba and build a team around the 22-year-old, but the player's representative, Mino Raiola, has now claimed that his client could depart after this weekend's showdown with Barcelona.

"Berlin could be Pogba's last game with Juventus," the agent told Sky Sport Italia. "They don't want to sell him. Whoever wants him will have to buy him.

"However, it could happen. The market is open until September 2.

"He has a contract with Juventus, who have not made any moves to sell him.

"Concrete offers arrived but they were brushed aside. But the price will be decided by who wants him. The price doesn't matter to someone who wants to buy a work of art.

"Juventus will control the auction but it will be one of the most costly transfers in history.

"He's a special player. He's already given us a glimpse of the path he's on even though we have not even seen the best of Pogba."

Pogba joined Juve on a free transfer from Manchester United in the summer of 2012 and has won three consecutive Serie A titles and one Coppa Italia with the Turin outfit.

[Socrates 8296]

 

Zidane: Pogba should join Real Madrid

The Castilla boss wants to see his compatriot join him at the Santiago Bernabeu
if he were to leave Juventus and feels it would be a good career move for the young midfielder.

 
Jun 5, 2015

Zinedine Zidane says Paul Pogba should follow in his footsteps by swapping Juventus for Real Madrid should his fellow Frenchman decide to leave Turin.

Pogba has developed into one of the best midfielders in the world since joining the Bianconeri on a free transfer from Manchester United in 2012, with the 22-year-old playing a key role in three successive Serie A title triumphs, as well as this season's run to the final of the Champions League.

Pogba's remarkable rise has seen him repeatedly linked with a lucrative move to one of Europe's richest clubs and his agent, Mino Raiola, has previously stated that his in-demand client will move on inside the next 18 months.

Zidane, who established himself as the best player on the planet during his five-season spell with Juve, retains the utmost respect for the Old Lady but believes that if Pogba really wants to leave, he should ignore other possible destinations and head straight for the Santiago Bernabeu.

"I don't know where he will end up, I have no information," the Real Madrid Castilla coach told Radio Monte Carlo. "Pogba has the quality to play wherever he wants.

"Now, if he has to leave Juventus... I adore Real Madrid and the best players play here, so I think it would be good for him to come. This is not a current issue right now but he has incredible potential."

Pogba has the chance to endear himself to Madrid fans by inspiring Juve to victory over Real's great rivals Barcelona in Saturday's Champions League final in Berlin.

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Bartomeu: Barcelona want Pogba

The club are banned from signing players until 2016,
but have admitted their interest in the Juventus midfielder.

 
Jun 7, 2015

Barcelona president Josep Bartomeu has revealed the club want to sign Juventus star Paul Pogba.

The Catalans are currently banned from signing players until 2016 after breaking rules regarding the acquisition of youth players.

However, that hasn't stopped them from pressing forward with recruitment plans ahead of next year, with Pogba top of their list.

Bartomeu told Telefoot: "It is true that Pogba is a leading target of ours and obviously we are interested, but I can't say anything more. We are forbidden to recruit players until January, so I can't talk about it."

Pogba was on the losing side in Saturday night's Champions League final as Barcelona triumphed 3-1 over Juve in Berlin.

But in light of reports claiming that could well have been his last game for the Bianconeri, Juve CEO Giuseppe Marotta insisted he would remain at the club.

"Juventus wants to win the Champions League next season and Pogba is an important player. He will be here next season for sure, 100 per cent.

Pogba, meanwhile, offered little response to the rumours in the aftermath of the game, adding: "I don't even think about anything else while I'm at Juve. It's nice to be asked but I'm not going to stop working for my club."

[Socrates 8296]

 

Pogba, City offer Juve €80m

 
Jun 12, 2015

The bid for Juventus' Paul Pogba has now reached €80m as reports emerge of a new offer by Manchester City.

The 'gold nugget' of French football, as defined by UEFA President Michel Platini, has been openly courted by Real Madrid, Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, as well as the Citizens.

According to La giornalaccio rosa dello Sport, the Premiership club set a new high in terms of the real bids for Pogba.

After PSG reportedly put €70m on the table for the player in January, the Sky Blues now emerged with an offer of €80m.

The 22-year-old was reported by his prominent agent Mino Raiola to be worth €100m and Juventus are believed by the giornalaccio rosa to be unwilling to consider offers below €85m.

[Socrates 8296]

 

Barcelona Make Pogba Number One Transfer Target

 
Jun 13, 2015

Barcelona have made Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba their number one transfer target this summer, despite the club currently unable to register players until January 2016 due to a transfer embargo.

The Bianconeri’s powerhouse midfielder enjoyed a superb season, winning the domestic double and just losing out on a treble, with the Turin giants losing 3-1 to Barcelona in the Champions League final last Saturday in Berlin.

Now according to Spanish daily Sport, the French midfielder is top of Barca’s wanted list, where initial contacts have been made in the past few days between the European champions’ sporting director Ariedo Braida and the 22-year-old’s representatives.

With the Catalans’ presidential elections due to take place on 22 July, a move to clinch the signature of the former Manchester United player is expected to intensify in the coming days.

The French international has made 89 appearances for Juve in Serie A, scoring 20 goals since making the free transfer move in 2012 from the Red Devils.

[Socrates 8296]

 

Juve, Danilo after Pogba?

 
Jun 13, 2015

Juventus are scouting Sporting de Braga defensive midfielder Danilo as a possible heir to Paul Pogba.

The Brazilian 19-year-old turned heads at the 2013 FIFA Under 17 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates and was sought after by a variety of clubs in the Premiership before ending up at Braga.

According to Tuttojuve.com, the player is being considered by Juventus as a younger alternative to Paul Pogba and an offer may follow, in particular if the French superstar decides to leave.

[Socrates 8296]

 

Pogba's best choice is to stay at Juventus - Evra

The defender wants his team-mate to remain in Turin
and expects the club to put up a fight to ensure he stays.

 
Jun 14, 2015

Juventus veteran Patrice Evra believes Paul Pogba should stay at the club but understands the dilemma he faces over his future.

A host of top European teams have been linked with the midfielder, while the player's agent Mino Raiola has repeatedly spoken about interest in his client.

The 22-year-old joined Juve on a free transfer after leaving Manchester United in 2012 and has since won three consecutive Serie A titles with the Bianconeri.

He also played a leading role as the club reached the Champions League final last season and Evra feels he should continue his development in Turin.

"I'm here to advise him to make the best choice but I told him the decision is his," Evra told Telefoot.

"People forget that Paul is young, and if he wants to go to a very big European club at age 22, why not? But if he wants to stay I think it would be a good idea.

"I do not think that Juventus want to let him go."

Pogba still has four years remaining on his current deal, which runs until June 2019.

[Socrates 8296]

 

Allegri: Pogba for sale at the right price

The Bianconeri boss has conceded that "certain figures are hard
to say no to" and suggested star striker Carlos Tevez could depart.

 
Jun 15, 2015

Massimiliano Allegri has conceded that Juventus could sell in-demand midfielder Paul Pogba this summer for the right price.

The France international has been heavily linked with a move away from Turin, with Barcelona, Real Madrid, Manchester City, Chelsea, Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain all tracking a player who could fetch a fee as high as €100 million.

Allegri is desperate to hold on to the 22-year-old but admitted that the decision is out of his hands.

"Obviously, with Paul, we're talking about a corporate choice - not a technical one: certain figures are hard to say no to," the Bianconeri boss told the giornalaccio rosa dello Sport.

"But if Paul remains in Turin, he has to do with the right attitude and have no regrets.

"Because what we have achieved this season is only a starting point and, to build for the future, Juve need motivated young players and veterans who will convey the right spirit to their team-mates."

Carlos Tevez's future is also up in the air, with the Argentine considering a return to Boca Juniors while reports have also suggested Atletico Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain want him.

Again, Allegri wants Juve's top scorer for the past two seasons to at least see out the final 12 months of his contract with the club but knows that the desire of the player will be key.

"Carlos' future also depends on him," the ex-AC Milan boss added. "It is his choice.

"But then again, those who remain have to know that the work for next season will be even more intense. I do not want people stopping to rest on their laurels."

[Socrates 8296]

 

Why Paul Pogba Is the Complete Modern Midfielder

 
Jun 15, 2015

There is little doubt that Paul Pogba has become one of World football’s most in-demand players. Three seasons with Juventus have seen the Frenchman rapidly develop, turning in numerous high-quality performances as he begins to deliver on his huge potential.

His name is constantly in the news, with talk of him becoming the game’s first €100 million-plus player should he choose to leave the Italian giants. This week, La giornalaccio rosa dello Sport reported on a supposed bidding war between Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester City (h/t Football Italia), yet the Bianconeri remain unmoved by such talk.

"There have been no official bids or interest for him,” director general Beppe Marotta told TuttoJuve.com (h/t Forza Italian Football) just a few days ago. “I am convinced that he wants to remain with Juventus.”

The reason for the continued chatter—and indeed the continually increasing price tag—is quite simple: Paul Pogba has evolved into the complete modern midfielder.

It was something that his team-mates in Turin discovered instantly, quickly recognising his talent following his arrival at the club in July 2012. "After just a few training sessions we saw how good he was,” Gigi Buffon told Richard Tanner of the Express last month. "I have never seen a player who is so good at his age, he is so strong, so technically gifted, has exceptional all-round play."

The Juventus captain—who has played alongside some of the greatest players of all time—is well-placed to pass such a judgment, and Pogba himself was smart enough to take notes from those around him. Indeed, it must be remembered that when he joined the Bianconeri, they had just completed an undefeated season, and the youngster was far from guaranteed a place in the side; that he has earned one is testament to the effort he has shown each and every day.

Standing 6’2” (1.88m) tall and powerfully built, Pogba was clearly blessed with incredible physical gifts, and he has often been likened to compatriot Patrick Vieira because of them. “Compared to me, Pogba is more attacking, whereas I was more defensively-minded,” the World Cup winner told France Football and Tuttosport last year (h/t Football Italia).

Indeed, while there are similarities between the two—most notably the speed at which they cover ground—there is no escaping the vast differences. To underline that, Pogba has netted 20 league goals for Juventus in just three years, trailing Vieira’s tally for his decade at Arsenal by just seven.

Long-distance strikes have become something of a specialty, the 22-year-old netting with increasing regularity and incredible power. However, while each of these trademark strikes has come to be called a “Pog-Boom,” there is so much more to his game than his ability to find the back of the net.

The younger man may not be throwing himself into fights with Roy Keane, but he works hard defensively, never neglecting his duties at that end of the pitch. The tactical discipline for which Italy is famous has clearly seen Pogba add awareness to his game, and he can be seen constantly shuffling back and forth to protect the defence behind him.

Beyond the mental, physical and goalscoring capabilities he has displayed, Pogba also possesses an incredible first touch, often using it to leave defenders looking incredibly foolish. He has become adept at beating his man, showing both skill and flair to render a steady stream of opponents trailing in his wake.

He has also worked to improve his distribution of the ball, with Paul Scholes revealing in a recent column for the Independent that he helped Pogba with this facet of his game during their time together at Old Trafford:

He spoke to me about improving his range of passing. So, after training we would spend time pinging the ball to each other from 50 yards’ distance. He had stronger suits to his game than his long passing – his power, his technique at close quarters, his athleticism – but he was determined to get better at what he thought was the weaker part of his game.

The results have earned the praise of none other than Andrea Pirlo, and it perhaps seems fitting to let the bearded genius have the final word on Paul Pogba's all-round greatness. “He has it all,” the Italy legend said recently, as reported by Amy Lawrence of the Guardian. “Physique, technique and an eye for goal. He is perfect. He can mark an era.”

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'I can do €80m deal for Pogba,' claims Barcelona presidential candidate

Agusti Benedito says that he has already spoken with both Juventus supremo
Andrea Agnelli and the player himself, who is also being tracked by Manchester City and PSG.

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2892/transfer-zone/2015/06/16/12772992/-?

 
Jun 16, 2015

Barcelona presidential candidate Agusti Benedito has claimed he will able to convince Juventus to sell Paul Pogba for €80 million if he is elected.

Goal revealed last month that Paris Saint-Germain have already agreed a deal worth €80m [£58m] in principle for the 22-year-old, while Manchester City are primed to make a world-record bid.

Barca, meanwhile, are currently prevented from registering any players until 2016 due to a Fifa-imposed transfer ban - but Benedito is adamant that he can signs Pogba if he wins the ongoing presidential race.

"I have spoken to Pogba," he told 8 al dia. "First, I contacted Juventus chairman Andrea Agnelli, then spoke directly with the player.

"They have proposed an annual salary of €12m after tax and a transfer fee of €80m."

Pogba is understood not to be keen on a return to his native France and would prefer a move to Barcelona and initial talks between Juventus and the newly crowned European champions were held last month.

Benedito is also keen to seek a new shirt sponsor, stating that he is morally opposed to the current agreement with Qatar Sports Investment, which expires next year.

"They represent the finance of international jihadist terrorism," he argued. "We have one, two or even three alternatives which will pay more money than Qatar."

Benedito added that he is in no doubt that he is the right man to take charge of Barca - even though he freely admits he is by no means an aficionado of the game.

"I have a business consultancy which works extensively in Bogota and is centred in the Latin American market," he explained. "I’m a big football fan but I don’t know a great deal about the game.

"I dedicate my time to searching for talent in all parts of the world and, through that work, I have discovered that Manchester United is a club which works incredibly well."

Barca's presidential race will be decided on July 18.

[Socrates 8296]

 

Marotta: Pogba off the market -
unless he asks to leave Juventus

The Bianconeri are desperate to hold on to the France international
but have now admitted that they will not keep him against his will.

http://www.goal.com/en-za/news/4682/transfer-zone/2015/06/17/12803412/-?

 
Jun 17, 2015

Juventus general manager Giuseppe Marotta insists that Paul Pogba is "off the market" - unless the midfielder says that he wants to leave Turin.

Pogba is one of the most coveted players in world football, with European heavyweights such as Barcelona, Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea and Manchester City all interested in signing the 22-year-old.

Marotta has repeatedly stated that Juve have no intention of cashing in on the France international - but he has now acknowledged that the player will ultimately decide whether he stays with the Italian champions.

"He is a fundamental player in the Juventus squad," Marotta is quoted as saying by Corriere dello Sport.

"Pogba is off the market, unless he says he wants to go. And he has not done that."

However, Barcelona presidential candidate Agusti Benedito claimed on Tuesday that he has spoken with both Juve and Pogba about a potential €80 million transfer to Camp Nou.

Meanwhile, Marotta admitted that Carlos Tevez is likely to return to Boca Juniors this summer - despite still having a year to go on his Juve contract.

"Players are human and he has expressed a willingness to bring an end to a glorious career in Argentina," he added.

Tevez has been Juve's top scorer for the past two seasons, since joining from Manchester City, but has repeatedly stated his intention to see out his playing days at Boca, where he took his first steps as a professional.

Indeed, Boca revealed on Tuesday that club president Daniel Angelici has travelled to Chile to meet with Tevez, who is representing Argentina at the Copa America, and discuss his potential return to La Bombonera.

[Socrates 8296]

 

Beppe Marotta says that Paul Pogba is not for sale — again

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2015/6/18/8803271/juventus-paul-pogba-beppe-marotta-serie-a-transfer-rumors-2015-GO-AWAY

 
Jun 18, 2015

Paul Pogba transfer rumors have been a constant nuisance in our lives for the past 18 months. They're here, every single day, mostly annoying the hell out of us. If you pull up a Google News search for "Paul Pogba transfer," you will get over 600,000 different results ranging from Pogba is leaving tomorrow to he's already been sold. OVER SIX-HUNDRED THOUSAND, PEOPLE.

And every single time Pogba's name is brought up around Beppe Marotta, the answer is essential the same as it has been since the first comments he made: "He is not for sale." Five simple words, nothing else is needed. That's the way Marotta rolls, and we're just here to listen to one of the main men behind Juve's roster construction do his thing.

It wasn't any different when Marotta spoke to the Corriere dello Sport. You want another reminder from Marotta that Pogba — the player that so many people think is leaving Turin this summer — isn't for sale? Well, here you go. Glad we could be of service.

"Pogba is a player who several teams have asked about, but we have not adhered to any negotiation because we consider him fundamental to our project. The player is off the market if he doesn't say he wants to leave. The will of the player is fundamental in football and it will be for Pogba as well. I repeat, we do not want to sell Pogba and he said today that [he] will not leave. If in the future he shows the desire to leave us, we must support him while protecting our financial interests."

(Source: ESPNFC)

Sorry,Chelsea.

Sorry, Manchester City.

Sorry, Real Madrid.

Sorry, Barcelona.

Sorry, Paris Saint-Germain.

Sorry, everybody else who might be interested in signing Paul Pogba.

(Except maybe not totally sorry because Juventus still has Pogba, but you know what I mean.)

One might worry if Marotta would change his tune even in the slightest when it comes to Pogba's future at the club. But, the thing is, he hasn't — at all. When Marotta speaks about Pogba's immediate future at the club, especially in these summer months when the transfer talk gets ratcheted up a couple hundred notches, is it always about how the Frenchman is staying right where he is. It's never the other way around or anything close to it.

In a nutshell, Marotta is about as honest and open as he is a shrewd businessman on the transfer market. And you know what that gets him? The benefit of the doubt for one. That applies to just about every time he's said Pogba is not for sale and that the player's desire will dictate the situation. Juventus don't want to tsell, Pogba doesn't want to leave, therefore Paul and his wide variety of mohawk haircuts will continue to wear black and white stripes.

[Socrates 8296]

 

Barcelona Plan Mammoth €100 Million Bid For Pogba

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/06/barcelona-plan-mammoth-e100-million-bid-for-juventus-star/?

 
Jun 19, 2015

Barcelona would already be working on the future transfer of Paul Pogba, readying a colossal bid for the Juventus star.

Pogba is set to be this summer transfer window’s hottest property, with a host of clubs already chasing his signature.

Barcelona would be preparing their offensive on Pogba, promising an offer Juventus cannot refuse at the end of it. According to Spanish newspaper Sport, Barcelona would be readying an astounding €100 million bid for the Frenchman.

The Spanish media add that Barcelona will look to raise half of the funds through sales, and put up the remaining €50m to lodge the mammoth bid. Finally, the Catalan giants would offer Pogba a deal worth €12m per season should the 22-year-old accept a Barcelona switch.

[Socrates 8296]

 

Pogba needs to stay at Juventus, says Allegri

The head coach believes it is in the midfielder's best interests to remain in Turin this summer.

http://www.goal.com/en/news/11/transfer-zone/2015/06/20/12895942/-?

 
Jun 19, 2015

Massimiliano Allegri believes star midfielder Paul Pogba needs to stay at Juventus in order to develop properly.

The 22-year-old has been heavily linked to a move away from Turin this summer, with senior figures at Barcelona and Real Madrid both confirming interest in him, while Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain have also been linked.

However, Allegri insists Juve have no need to cash in on the France international just yet and feels it is in his best interests to remain in Italy.

"The club does not need to sell Pogba," the head coach told Sky Italia. "It depends on what the player wants, but I talked to him and I left happy.

"He is young and still needs to stay at Juve to develop. It is easier to grow in an environment like this and he has many years ahead of him.

"Juve are a great team at the same level of the others in Europe and he has to have the right motivation to have another good season."

[Socrates 8296]

 

PSG Ready €98 Million Bid For Juventus Star

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/06/psg-ready-e98-million-bid-for-juventus-star/?

 
Jun 21, 2015

Paris Saint-Germain would be readying a mammoth bid for Juventus star Paul Pogba according to Spanish reports.

Rumours around Pogba’s departure have been ride since the opening of the summer transfer window, with a number of Europe’s biggest clubs looking to lure the Juventus midfielder away from Turin.

Marca report that PSG would be preparing an impressive €98 million bid to prize Pogba away from Juventus.

With the Bianconeri already very active in the transfer window, since the acquisitions of Atletico Madrid’s Mario Mandzukic, Real Madrid’s Sami Khedira and Palermo’s Paulo Dybala, the Spanish media report that Juventus would not be averse to Pogba’s departure if their €80 million price tag is met.

Pogba arrived at Juventus in 2012 from Manchester United, making 89 appearances and scoring 20 goals for the Bianconeri since.

[Socrates 8296]

 

Henry: Pogba was ready for Manchester United

The former Arsenal man believes his compatriot is a "special player" and insists he could
have coped with first-team football at Old Trafford before his departure at the age of 19.

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2896/premier-league/2015/06/22/12944962/-?

 
Jun 22, 2015

Thierry Henry believes Paul Pogba is a “special player” and was ready to star on the biggest stage even before he joined Juventus from Manchester United three years ago.

Pogba is a transfer target for several leading clubs across Europe after playing a key role in Juventus' Serie A and Coppa Italia triumphs last season.

The 22-year-old midfielder has attracted interest from Manchester City and Chelsea in the Premier League - and fellow Frenchman Henry is not surprised by talk suggesting he could leave Turin for as much as £70 million this summer.

“He is a special player and that’s why every team wants him,” Henry told Goal at the launch of Arsenal's new Puma home kit.

“Is he going to stay at Juve? I don’t know. But whoever gets him is going to get an amazing player.

“I was a bit upset for him because he couldn’t perform the way he wanted to perform at the end of the season because he came back from an injury at the wrong time.

“For people to talk about him the way they talk about him right now, it’s because he has something that young players his age don’t have right now.”

Pogba joined Juventus from Manchester United in 2012 for a nominal compensation fee after he grew frustrated with a lack of playing opportunities under Sir Alex Ferguson at Old Trafford.

Arsenal legend Henry has been tracking Pogba’s progress for a long time and admits he was surprised that the youngster left United in the first place.

Henry added: “He was ready to play at the time he left Manchester United. I don’t know what happened there, he was ready for me at that time.

“I saw him play in a World Cup with the France youth team and you could see already that he had something different from the other players.

“It didn’t work for him at United for various reasons but he showed character, he went to Juve and showed he could play. Now everybody wants him.”

[Socrates 8296]

 

Brazilian Starlet Could Be Key
To Barcelona’s Move For Pogba

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/06/brazilian-starlet-could-be-key-to-barcelonas-move-for-juventus-midfielder/?

 
Jun 23, 2015

Barcelona may use Fluminense starlet Gerson as a make weight in order to tempt Juventus into selling highly rated French international midfielder Paul Pogba.

The 18-year-old is regarded as one of Brazil’s most promising young talents and the Catalan giants are believed to have paid the Rio de Janeiro club €3million in order to secure a first option on the U-20 internationalist. The deal gives Barcelona priority on signing the player for a further transfer fee until 2019.

Mundo Deportivo reports that the Blaugrana are willing to sacrifice that agreement by offering the Bianconeri their first option on Gerson in order to tempt the Turin side into selling Pogba and also in the hopes of lower the financial demands of the Italian champions.

The Spanish newspaper goes to highlight that Juventus have held a long standing interest in the attacking midfielder and had previously rivalled Barcelona for his signature.

Gerson only made his senior debut for Fluminense in February, but has since went on to make 19 appearances in all competitions for the Tricolor Carioca.

[Socrates 8296]

 

Laporta Promises Barcelona
He Will Deliver Pogba If Elected

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/06/laporta-promises-barcelona-he-will-deliver-juventus-midfielder-if-elected/?

 
Jun 25, 2015

Joan Laporta, back in the running for a second stint at the Barcelona presidency, has promised that if elected, he will bring Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba to the Camp Nou.

The Champions League winners’ presidential election takes place next month on July 18 with Laporta, who held the position for seven years, one of the favourites for the position and Pogba is not the only promise he has made – insisting Eric Abidal will be installed as sporting director if he takes over.

Interviewed about his campaign on Radio Catalunya, he said: “I know that Pogba would love to come to Barcelona and I have a great relationship with [his agent] Mino Raiola.

“It would be the best reinforcement for us and I believe that he would fit in very well with our style of play.”

Pogba has been closely linked with moves to Barca, Real Madrid, PSG and a host of English clubs during this summer transfer window already.