Jon Super/Associated Press

Glazers Reportedly View Paul Pogba as 'Untouchable' Amid Barcelona Rumours

Gianni Verschueren

The Glazer family, Manchester United's owners, reportedly see Paul Pogba as "untouchable" and the Red Devils' own version of Lionel Messi, making a transfer to Barcelona impossible. 

Catalan newspaper Mundo Deportivo previously reported Pogba wouldn't be joining the Blaugrana because of his salary demands (h/t Sport Witness' Naveen Ullal), but the outlet has now stated the deal can't go through because of the Glazers' stance.

Per the report, the Glazers believe Pogba to be an "integral part" of the Red Devils, similar to how the Catalans won't entertain the idea of Messi's exit.

The previous reports mostly centered around the 25-year-old's reported salary demands of €12 million per year (£10.5 million). Added to his transfer fee, bringing in the midfielder wouldn't fit into Barcelona's budget:

Pogba was linked with a move to the La Liga giants throughout summer, and the speculation hasn't died down.

The former Juventus man hasn't done himself any favours with some of his public comments. He recently told AFP it's "hard to concentrate" following France's FIFA World Cup win (h/t Tony Mogan of the Evening Standard). He also appeared to criticise manager Jose Mourinho and his defensive playing style in September, per Richard Jolly of the Guardian.

An exit from Old Trafford seems increasingly likely. The Mirror's Andy Dunn is among those who have called on the club to "call his bluff" and present him with a new contract:

Pogba is the face of the club, however, and the financial aspect of a transfer would complicate matters.

Even if the Red Devils wanted to part with the France international, there would only be a handful of clubs that could come up with the transfer fee it would take to land him. Add to that his hefty wage demands, and you end up with a difficult deal.

Things get nearly impossible if the Glazers decide they don't want to play ball. United have enormous financial reserves and no need to cash in on a player they want to keep around.

   

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