Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba is reportedly set to leave Old Trafford in the summer, putting to an end the uncertainty that has surrounded his future over the last year. Manchester Evening News have reported that the Red Devils star is intent on leaving the club, which will bring to an end a whirlwind return to Old Trafford, four years after signing from Juventus.
The French World Cup-winning midfielder’s contract at Old Trafford expires in 2021 and United will not want to go into the start of next season with the possibility of Paul Pogba leaving on a free transfer in a year.
If Pogba does leave Old Trafford, who should be signed to replace him?
3 players Manchester United can target as Paul Pogba’s replacement
Donny van de Beek (Ajax)
Ajax midfielder Donny van de Beek has become a key figure for the Dutch giants over the last few seasons, playing a starring role in their 2019-20 Champions League run. The 22-year-old player is a goal-scoring midfielder who can play as a defensive midfielder, central midfielder or attacking midfielder as well. He has the ability to pick out key passes, while also getting into good positions to take shots on goal or lay it off to teammates.
The Dutchman could add goals and dynamism from midfield, something that’s been lacking at Old Trafford over the last few seasons. While new signing Bruno Fernandes may be a similar player to van de Beek, United need another option in that role to add depth to their squad if they are to challenge for the title anytime soon.
Jack Grealish (Aston Villa)
Jack Grealish has been heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford, and the hype over him is warranted, considering the fantastic season he is having for an underperforming Aston Villa side. The Villa captain is a player with loads of flair, technical ability, and vision – all of which would win over the fans at Old Trafford.
Many pundits predicted that either James Maddison or Jack Grealish could be a target for Manchester United, but with the former reportedly close to signing a new deal, Grealish will be the preferred choice for Manchester United.
Kai Havertz (Bayer Leverkusen)
One youngster who has generated a lot of excitement and fanfare in Germany is 20-year-old midfielder Kai Havertz. The Bayer Leverkusen player is capable of playing as a midfielder, attacking midfielder, or wide on the right. Havertz is not just a versatile player, but one with good vision, ability to shoot and cross, as well as dribble, among many other things.
The German would be much more attack-minded than Paul Pogba and is a player that has a lot of potential. The Red Devils will have to battle Liverpool for the signature of the German, as Jurgen Klopp looks to strengthen his squad further.