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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Sport
Samuel Meade

Man Utd's winners and losers from possible Paul Pogba exit with Donny van de Beek to benefit

Paul Pogba's time at Manchester United could be drawing to a close after five years at Old Trafford.

The Frenchman's contract is winding down and he has turned down a fresh extension which could force United's hand.

The Red Devils will be loathed to lose their £89m record signing for nothing so may have to cut their losses.

PSG are eyeing a bargain deal for the 28-year-old as they look to lure him to the French capital.

Pogba's United career has been a mixture of magic moments, constant frustration and off field drama.

But whilst his exit would come as a blow, others could stand to profit as United continue to reshape their squad.

Paul Pogba has been linked with the exit door (PA)

Winners

Donny van de Beek

The Dutchman's biggest problem since moving to Old Trafford has been a lack of opportunities.

Van de beek arrived having been a crucial cog for Ajax, but wasn't afforded enough minutes to prove his worth in Manchester.

He finds himself behind Bruno Fernandes in the pecking order, but if Pogba left gaps would inevitably open up.

The Dutch star's skillset means he could play both in midfield or the attacking line. Pogba has played centrally but also out wide in a front three - all positions that Van de Beek could take up.

Perhaps the Frenchman's departure may allow us to see the best of him.

McFred

The two midfield anchors have been Solskjaer's go to men when it comes to must-win games.

Rarely are they spectacular, producing the sort of flair that Pogba does, but they are forever reliable and will remain disciplined.

When United play against some of the lesser teams there are calls to see the Frenchman usurp one of either Fred or Scott McTominay.

Should he leave though then their partnership at the base of midfield stands to thrive without disruption.

Losers

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer

It's not that the United boss lacks for options, but when you speak so confidently about keeping a player who turns down a contract extension to leave, it's never going to look great.

Solskjaer has constantly defended his midfielder amid criticism for on field performances and off field antics.

He could be left with egg on his face however should Pogba secure a move to PSG - or anywhere else for that matter.

Back in June he said: "We want the best players here, and the club knows what I want. I do not know how the dialogue goes, but if we are to fight for the best trophies, we must have the best players".

The attack

For all the frustration that comes with Pogba, when he's on it he really is on it.

United have been devastating on the counter-attack under Solskjaer and Pogba has been a big part of that.

His passing variation is a huge asset and has seen the likes of Marcus Rashford and Mason Greenwood thrive in attack.

Yes the Frenchman can make you want to rip your hair out, but you'd rather have him on your team for that one pass that unlocks a defence and wins you a game.

Marcus Rashford has benefited from playing alongside Paul Pogba (Pool via REUTERS)

The Varane transfer

United are reportedly edging closer to a move for the Real Madrid centre-half.

Raphael Varane's contract is up in less than 12 months and Los Blancos may have to cash in.

Currently the fee is a sticking point, with United reluctant to pay more than £40m whilst Madrid want £50m.

But if Varane, a four-time Champions League winner, sees Pogba exiting Old Trafford he may question the club's ambition.

Now to mention the pair are compatriots and enjoy a strong bond.

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