Pogba ‘leaning’ towards Man Utd stay as key factor revealed

Paul Pogba is now reportedly ‘leaning’ towards staying at Manchester United amid speculation over his future at Old Trafford.

The 28-year-old has been in stunning form for the Red Devils so far this season, with his brace of assists in the 4-1 win on Saturday taking his tally to seven in four games.

Pogba is in the final year of his current United deal and there has been no meaningful movement on an extension, with Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid both rumoured to be considering a move this summer.

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He will be able to hold talks with prospective suitors in January ahead of a free transfer if his United future isn’t resolved.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and the United board are said to be realistic about the situation and are making contingency plans should the midfielder leave.

But those plans can be shelved and The Athletic now claim Pogba is rethinking his future.

The report states that Cristiano Ronaldo’s ‘homecoming’ has had a big impact on the Frenchman, and his arrival, along with the signings of Raphael Varane and Jadon Sancho, has been enough to convince Pogba to consider a new deal.

Ronaldo was grateful for the reception he received from the United fans and is looking forward to building on his brace in the win over Steve Bruce’s Newcastle.

“I didn’t expect to score two goals,” Ronaldo told BBC Sport. “I expect one but not two. I have to appreciate the fans and what they did to me today. I feel so proud for that.

“The most important thing was to win and to win games. Manchester [United] needs to be where they deserve. It is to win, to build the team and build the club and the mentality.

“This is what we are looking for. Of course I am happy to score goals I am not going to deny that but the most important thing is the team and the team played good.”

Ronaldo admitted that he was “nervous” before making his return at Old Trafford but revealed the Man Utd faithful calmed him down.

He added: “It is unbelievable. When I started the game I was so nervous, I swear. It is normally because I did not expect that they would sing my name all game. I was very nervous but maybe I didn’t show but I was. The reception is incredible but I am here to win games and help the team.”