Manchester United 'to open Paul Pogba contract talks'

Manchester United are reportedly preparing to open contact talks with Paul Pogba in a bid to convince the midfielder to commit his long-term future to the club.

The Frenchman and his agent Mino Raiola have both made it clear that the 2018 World Cup winner wants to leave Old Trafford ahead of the 2019-20 campaign.

However, it has been reported that the midfielder is unlikely to leave Old Trafford this summer as Real Madrid are not prepared to meet United's £170m asking price.

According to the London Evening Standard, the Red Devils are now keen to open talks over a new deal for the France international, who will see his current contract expire in 2021.

Despite the speculation surrounding his future, Pogba is currently with the United squad in Australia and was a half-time substitute in their 2-0 win over Perth Glory at the weekend.

The former Le Havre youngster, who has also been linked with a return to Juventus, scored 16 times and registered 11 assists for his English club last term.