Transfer News: Eric Abidal denies Barcelona talks with Paul Pogba

Barcelona Director of Football Eric Abidal has denied meeting Paul Pogba in Los Angeles to poach him from Manchester United this summer.

According to a report by Spanish publication Mundo Deportivo, Eric Abidal has categorically denied rumours of Barcelona meeting Paul Pogba over a possible summer move. The Barcelona Director of Football has instead claimed that he would first approach Manchester United before holding talks with the player.

Pogba’s second coming at Manchester United hasn’t exactly been smooth sailing. While he has been one of the most important players for the Red Devils, the Frenchman has also had a dangerous tendency to switch off at times. His inconsistencies reportedly also put him at odds with Jose Mourinho last season, which led to rumours of a possible departure just two years after his return to Old Trafford.

But, Pogba made a clear statement to his doubters at the 2018 FIFA World Cup, as he played a pivotal role in France’s triumph in Russia. His Manchester United future though, continues to remain uncertain, with the likes of Barcelona and Juventus being heavily linked with him.

At Barcelona, the need for a midfielder has been evident since the departures of Andres Iniesta and Paulinho. Arthur seems to be a player who possesses immense potential. But, with Denis Suarez and Andre Gomes tipped to be offloaded by the Catalans, a midfield reinforcement would be more than welcome, even if Sergi Roberto is deployed as one in the upcoming season.

Pogba, with his creative abilities and an eye for goal, can potentially be the player to not just adequately replace Paulinho, but also add to Barcelona’s build-up. But, signing him from Manchester United will be a tall order, with the Red Devils understandably unwilling to part ways with their star player.

There have been suggestions in the Italian media this week that Eric Abidal met Pogba in Los Angeles, and is looking to swoop him away from Manchester United. But, the Barcelona Director of Football has gone on to deny the rumours.

The Frenchman has insisted that he will first approach Manchester United if Barcelona were indeed interested in signing his compatriot, before holding talks with the player over a possible move. Abidal still hasn’t denied interest in the 25-year-old, and we could still see the Blaugrana make a move for the World Cup winner.

For now, Manchester United fans can heave a sigh of relief and hope for Pogba to remain at Old Trafford beyond the summer transfer window. But, a nervous few weeks of the transfer window remain for them, with a Barcelona move not out of the question, yet.