PAUL Pogba, Manchester United’s star midfielder who is fresh off a long injury lay-off but seen as a strong candidate for a leadership role at the club, finds himself at the dead centre of Ole Gunnar Solskjær’s long-term vision.
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The Norwegian has every intention to secure Pogba’s long-term future at Old Trafford, despite the 27-year-old being linked with moves to both his former club Juventus and Real Madrid, in recent times. Before the coronavirus pandemic, which placed a wrench in Premier League proceedings for three months, it had appeared that the Frenchman was on his way out at United this summer.
However, the fully recovered World Cup winner has built up an impressive rapport with Bruno Fernandes as United chase Champions League qualification. His current deal expires in 12 months’ time but United have the option to extend it by a further season. “Of course, we want to keep the best players around the club and hopefully we can do something,” said Solskjær.
We want to build a squad for the future. We have secured one at the start and another who is really experienced. But we also need players in the mid-range group. Since Paul has come back, he’s looking better and better. He’s enjoying his football and so, let’s see where it takes us.”
Solskjær, looking to strengthen his squad even further ahead of the new campaign, is expected to make signings which come in the form of Borussia Dortmund’s Jadon Sancho, among a host of players, he is keeping a close eye on. This will not be without making careful consideration on United’s financial position, a fact which Solskjær is fully aware of.
“The whole world has changed both financially and the perception we’ve got on values. Every time I put the case in front of Ed [Woodward], I think it’s a sensible one and a realistic one. I’ve always got the club in the front of my mind. I don’t think short term, I always think long term and try to make good deals. I’m always quite careful with money,” Solskjær added.