Welcome to the United On My Mind daily round-up, where we take a look at some of the best Manchester United stories that you might have missed.
Rio Ferdinand has slammed Gary Neville and other United critics off the back of the club’s disappointing draw against Newcastle.
As his contract ticks down, reports suggest Real Madrid have now pulled out of the race to sign United midfielder Paul Pogba.
And finally, reports claim United have been handed a big transfer boost by one of Chelsea’s star players.
Rio vs Gary
Ferdinand and Neville can both be considered United legends and for many years were on the same page during their incredibly successful careers at Old Trafford.
But they’ve taken opposing views on the current situation at Old Trafford.
Speaking on his podcast, Vibe with Five, Ferdinand addressed Neville’s comments on United after the disappointing 1-1 draw at Newcastle, where the former England right-back called some players "whingebags".
Ferdinand said: “A lot of the press that came out following that game, including one of my old mates Gary Neville, made me believe we were in a relegation battle based on the comments people made and the way the mood turned negative.
"Yes, we haven’t played the type of football that people or fans have grown accustomed to, but Ralf Rangnick didn’t inherit a team in good form.”
Our view: United could do with players standing up and being counted just like Ferdinand did here. Too late to dust your boots off, Rio?
And, no, we're not being whingebags, Gary!
Madrid pull Pogba plug
For quite some time, Pogba’s future has been a topic of discussion and, as his contract now enters the final six months, he is increasingly likely to call his United days to an end.
It pains us to say it, but he has not reached his vast potential in a red shirt.
One of the teams who have been heavily linked with Pogba are Spanish giants Real Madrid, but Los Blancos have apparently decided to cast their glances elsewhere.
The Mail reported that Madrid will now focus all their attention on acquiring the services of Pogba’s compatriot Kylian Mbappe, whose contract also expires in the summer.
Our view: Pogba will almost certainly leave Old Trafford and the same report claims the World Cup winner is now likely to join Paris Saint-Germain or his former team Juventus.
Although United fans would’ve loved Pogba to reach his potential as the returning hero, it feels as if that race has been run and it would suit all parties if the 28-year-old were to move on.
Rudiger to United?
Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger is without a doubt a hugely talented centre-half, but his situation at his current club seems to be pointing towards a move away from Stamford Bridge.
Real Madrid were a team linked with making a move for Rudiger but ABC reports the Spanish club were put off by his agent’s ‘greedy’ demands of a £17million signing-on fee.
German broadcaster Sky Sport claimed last month that United could be Rudiger's shock preferred destination and a huge obstacle might have been cleared to make way for a transfer coup.
Our view: Although this feels somewhat unlikely, Rudiger to United would be brilliant. Not only would he offer solid ability at the back, but he would provide the direct competition for Harry Maguire has long needed.
And let’s be honest, United have never shied away from signing Chelsea’s sloppy seconds!
Who do you want United to sign? Follow our United on my Mind trends writer Anil Kandola and let us know your thoughts in the comments section below
