It is getting serious. The negotiation between Juventus and Manchester United for Paul Pogba has officially begun. It was a face-to-face meeting between the clubs today, and the first offer has been tabled. United's Executive Vice President Ed Woodward was present for United, as was Pogba's agent Mino Raiola. Representing Juventus: club executives Marotta and Paratici. 101 million euros was the first offer (higher fee than it cost for Real to buy Bale, so potentially already the biggest transfer fee ever).
It appears that Pogba is leaning towards agreeing to a move to England, thanks in part to the enormous salary (13 million euros net of taxes) United has offered to the player. Juventus seems to understand Pogba's motives, which could demonstrate the club's reasoning behind the serious consideration of United's offer, without in reality intending to accept.
In the next few days, Juventus will likely be submitting a counter-offer of up to 120 million euros, plus bonuses tied to Pogba's future output and future contracts. Raiola's role in the deal could also be another aspect to consider between the clubs. At this point, it seems only to be a question of fees and prices. Juventus is digesting for the first time for real that Pogba could be leaving, and choosing Manchester United. But no question that this is a serious effort for United to land Paul Pogba.
@ZekeTell
