Real Madrid Struggling To Complete Pogba's Signing

Real Madrid have set an ambitious target to seal the signing of Paul Pogba on July 1 which is the day Manchester United return for pre-season training.

They know at the Santiago Bernabeu that the Frenchman's arrival will not be easy, due to the cost involved and United's stance on the matter, and, from Monday, they have left themselves just two weeks to complete the deal.

Thus far, United have been unwilling to negotiate Pogba's exit, though his statements on Sunday may change their position. This is the 26-year-old's first step towards trying to force the transfer as he signals his intent whilst also opting to go public in his desire to leave. There have been more aggressive tactics used in the past as players have looked to force their way out, but his declarations are nevertheless significant after being named as Zinedine Zidane's No.1 target.

In order to avoid Pogba returning to United for pre-season, Madrid will need to act quickly. Securing the transfer earlier would enable the midfielder to have an extra week of rest, too, as the English side begin pre-season on July 1 while Los Blancos will start theirs a week later on July 8, at which point they will travel to Canada.