Football rumours from the media

What the papers say

World Cup-winning midfielder Paul Pogba wants to remain at Old Trafford, backtracking on a decision he made earlier in the season to stay with the Red Devils according to the Sun. The paper says the 25-year-old has held talks with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer which have convinced him to stay.

As a result of Pogba’s U-turn, United have quelled their interest in signing Ivan Rakitic from Barcelona, according to the Evening Standard. The Croatia international was tipped as a possible replacement until Pogba began to feature heavily under Solskjaer’s reign.

However, another new arrival at Old Trafford could come in the form of Toby Alderweireld with Tottenham said to be resigned to losing the defender for £26million owing to a clause in his contract, reports the Daily Mirror.

Meanwhile, Borussia Dortmund have warned United to back away from England youngster Jadon Sancho, the Mirror says, with the German club hoping to keep hold of the 18-year-old for one more season. United were said to be ready to swoop in with a big offer this summer.

At Newcastle, Rafa Benitez could be under pressure to bring in younger players if he extends his stay at St James’ Park. According to the Mirror, that is the preference of owner Mike Ashley, while Benitez has been known to strengthen his squad with experienced players in the past.

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Ones to watch

Slavisa Jokanovic: The former Fulham manager is yet to hear from West Brom about the vacancy at the Hawthorns, the Daily Mirror reports.

Juan Sebastian Sforza: AC Milan are leading the pack to sign the Argentine midfielder, but Manchester City, Paris St Germain, West Ham, Bayern Munich and Juventus are all interested, reports Calciomercato.

Mauro Icardi: The 26-year-old looks set to leave Inter Milan having not featured in a match since he was dropped as captain last month. Juventus and Real Madrid are interested in the striker, says TyC Sports.