Juventus Sporting Director: 'We've Never Thought About' Paul Pogba Transfer

Juventus sporting director Fabio Paratici has said Paul Pogba will not be returning from Manchester United for a second stint in Serie A.

According to Football Italia, Paratici confirmed his club will always have "love" for the Frenchman, but no bid is imminent.

"We love him very much," Paratici said at the Manlio Scopigno awards. "We're connected to him, but we've never thought about it and we're not going to think about it."

Pogba was nominated for the Ballon d'Or on Monday, making the 30-man list after his success with France at the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

However, his spell at United has been engulfed in controversy, as his relationship with coach Jose Mourinho continues to deteriorate.

The midfielder has been linked with a switch away from Old Trafford, with Barcelona and Juve potential destinations for the maligned player.

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Calciomercato (h/t Goal) reported the Italian champions wanted to exploit the player's conflict with Mourinho by triggering a move for his services in January.

United have reportedly told Pogba he cannot leave during the winter transfer window, and no bids for his services will be considered.

Simon Jones for Mail Online reported the Red Devils' stance, with the player's agent Mino Raiola confirming the news.

Speaking on Italian radio, Raiola said: "I prefer not to talk about [Pogba]. It's a very delicate moment and we all know that, but Manchester United have been very clear with everybody: Pogba is not on the market."

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United have suffered a sizeable slump under Mourinho this season, but signs of recovery were present as the team fought back from 2-0 down at home to Newcastle United to win 3-2 in the Premier League on Saturday.

Pogba was named man of the match after a consummate display at the heart of proceedings, proving he remains the best outfield player currently plying his trade at the Theatre of Dreams.

Losing Pogba would be a huge embarrassment for the Glazer family, as the United owners attempt to further their brand on and off the pitch.

At 25, the player is coming into his peak, and if United can convince him to remain, they will have a world-class individual to build around in the coming transfer windows.