Marseille will again consider a move for Paul Pogba at the end of the season after opting against signing the midfielder in January.
Pogba is a free agent after leaving Juventus in November with both club and player wanting a fresh start following a disappointing second spell in Turin.
The France World Cup winner was banned for four years after testing positive for testosterone but his sanction was reduced to 18 months on appeal. He is eligible to play again in March.
He makes for an enticing acquisition for any ambitious club and Marseille, who are second in Ligue 1, fit the bill.
OM sporting director Medhi Benatia told L’Equipe: “We thought about it [signing Pogba in January].
“We wanted to do it. The problem is, if we brought in Paul Pogba, who isn’t yet fit, does it make sense to shake up our squad for a player who won’t be able to participate in the end of the season?
“If something can be done, we will be delighted to welcome a player like Paul Pogba to give us a helping hand next year, if the opportunity presents itself.”
United return?
Given the transfer window is now closed – and different rules apply across Europe on whether clubs can register free agents – it seems likely the 31-year-old will have to wait until the summer for anyone to make their move.
Pogba recently teased a return to Manchester United with a message on social media and Rio Ferdinand would certainly consider the possibility.
The former United defender told Rio Presents: “You’d like to think he would [be going somewhere]. Surely he’s got to go somewhere.
“Pogba at United? I’d go come in and train with us and let’s see what you’ve got. I’d do that. I would’ve done that already. I’d say come in and get fit and let’s have a little look.”
