Paul Pogba confirms desire to leave Man Utd for 'a new challenge'

Paul Pogba has confirmed he is looking for "a new challenge" after three years back at Manchester United.

The midfielder is keen to leave and has previously stated his desire to one day play for Real Madrid.

Standard Sport understands United executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward is determined to reject any bid for Pogba and is under no pressure to sell, with Pogba still having two years to run on his contract - and the option of a further 12 months.

However, Pogba has now publicly confirmed his desire to leave with a little under two months of the transfer window still to run.

"There is a lot of talking and a lot of thinking as well,” Pogba. "For me, I have been for three years in Manchester and have been doing great; some good moments and some bad moments, like everybody. Like everywhere else.

“After this season and everything that happened this season, with my season being my best season as well ... I think for me it could be a good time to have a new challenge somewhere else.

"I am thinking of this: to have a new challenge somewhere else.”

Despite their heavy reluctance to sell, United have drawn up a list of replacements for Pogba. Tottenham midfielder Christian Eriksen, himself after a move, and Monaco's Youri Tielemans are top of the list.