Manchester United have been bracing themselves for an approach from Real Madrid for Paul Pogba this summer, but Zinedine Zidane did not confirm whether recent injuries to his players could accelerate a move.
Real hold an interest in Pogba and are hopeful of securing a move, despite United's firm stance that the Frenchman will not leave Old Trafford this summer. Pogba himself has suggested he wants a "new challenge" amid talk of a move to Madrid or a return to former club Juventus.
Los Blancos have suffered a number of injuries during their pre-season tour of the United States of America. New left back Ferland Mendy has picked up a calf injury, while Marco Asensio is ruled out long-term with a torn cruciate ligament.
The Spanish giants have also seen Dani Ceballos join Arsenal in recent days, with Gareth Bale, James Rodriguez and Isco all potential departures before the transfer window closes. Mateo Kovacic, Marcos Llorente, Theo Hernandez and Raul de Tomas have all left, too.
Former Man City starlet Brahim Diaz is another player on the treatment table and ahead of a pre-season clash with rivals Atletico tomorrow (Saturday), Zidane was asked about the injury crisis and whether it could mean Real again look to the transfer market.
"It worries me and above all it bothers me,” he told Marca.
"We are preparing the players who are here, then we will return to Madrid.
"I don't think about who is going to replace Marco. We are devastated with Marco's injury and our squad is the one we have here."
MEN Sport understands United are not prepared to sell Pogba this summer and boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer wants the France World Cup winner to form an integral part of his squad for the coming season.
