Real Madrid Transfer News: Paul Pogba Reports Conflict, Manchester United Talk

Spanish newspapers AS and Marca have published conflicting reports regarding Real Madrid's interest in Juventus star Paul Pogba, but both agree Manchester United are nearing a deal for him.

AS (h/t Sport Witness) reported Los Blancos want to recruit the Frenchman but have asked the Bianconeri for time "to raise money from a big sale first," saying United are "on the verge" of wrapping up a deal for him and it is "almost done."

Marca (h/t Sport Witness), meanwhile, reported "the growing disinterest of Real Madrid has opened the door" for the Red Devils to sign the midfielder.

AS featured Pogba on Monday's cover:

The 23-year-old has enjoyed a remarkable rise during his four years in Turin and is one of the most sought-after players in world football.

The Sun's Neil Custis believes the France international could be the final piece of the puzzle at Old Trafford after the recruitment of Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Eric Bailly:

Indeed, Pogba has become a standout player for the Bianconeri thanks to his excellent performances in the centre, regaining possession for his side and pushing forward with energy and creativity as he looks to fashion opportunities in attack.

Here are his stats for last season, per Squawka:

	Pogba
Apps	35
Goals	8
Assists	12
Chances Created	54
Take-Ons	102
Tackles	55
Interceptions	47
Aerial Duels	63

Despite France reaching the final of UEFA Euro 2016, Pogba struggled to set the tournament alight as expected on home soil.

Nevertheless, Bleacher Report UK's Sam Tighe believed many were quick to judge him harshly:

Though he may not have been able to shine for Les Bleus at the same level he does so regularly for Juventus, it's clear he's a tremendous player.

While the prospect of a midfield trio of Pogba, Luka Modric and Toni Kroos is mouthwatering, he wouldn't be a natural fit in Real's side; though he works hard to win back the ball, he's still primarily a more attacking player.

Los Blancos need someone who can shield the back four, and should Pogba be included alongside Modric and Kroos, the midfield would lack balance—just as it does when James Rodriguez plays there, though perhaps to a slightly lesser extent.

Whether Real need a particular player hasn't stopped them from pursuing star signings in the past, however, and they could yet have a say in where he ends up next season.