Ferdinand makes two transfer demands of Manchester United

Matt Stead

Rio Ferdinand has warned Manchester United not to sell Paul Pogba.

With speculation about the France midfielder’s future once again rife amid reports of interest from Barcelona, former United defender Ferdinand has told executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward to keep the 25-year-old.

Manager Jose Mourinho has already predicted a “difficult season” if United do not do more business, so losing a World Cup-winning midfielder would only add to that.

As a result, Ferdinand – who made over 450 appearance for United – wants Pogba to stay and Spurs defender Toby Alderweireld to come in.

Referencing reports that Pogba’s agent, Mino Raiola, is looking at the Nou Camp as a possible new home for his player, Ferdinand said: “Don’t you dare allow this ED… #MUFC is Pogba’s home!! Silence these rumours ASAP & get @AlderweireldTob through the door.”

That last part really should happen.

United start their Premier League campaign on Friday at Leicester and, speaking on Sunday, Mourinho told MUTV: “My CEO knows what I want and I still have a few days to wait and see what happens.

“The other clubs who compete with us are really strong and already have fantastic teams. Or they are investing massively like Liverpool, who are buying everything and everybody.”