POGBA OPTION STILL ON THE TABLE

Barca president Bartomeu leaves door open on signing United forward

BARCELONA president Josep Maria Bartomeu did not rule out a move for Paul Pogba as he admitted there could still be business done before the transfer window closes in Spain.

Pogba’s future as a Manchester United player is uncertain despite the France international being handed the captain’s armband for their opening Premier League game against Leicester.

The World Cup winner has endured a strained relationship with manager Jose Mourinho in the two years since his return to Old Trafford.

And on Friday evening, following the 2-1 win, he admitted he would be fined if he told reporters his true thoughts.

Barcelona have emerged as potential suitors for Pogba, and they still have an opportunity to sign him before the end of the month, with the Spanish window closing on Aug 31.

Asked about Pogba after his side’s 2-1 Super Cup win against Sevilla, Bartomeu said: “I won’t speak of any names, we have respect for all clubs and there are 20 days left.

“We’ll see which players come out. We’re focused on the league, so it’s best to ask [Eric] Abidal, [Ramon] Planes or Pep Segura about players.”

“I don’t think about signings. I think about my team and preparing for the next match,” manager Ernesto Valverde said.

“That’s my plan, although everything is up in the air until the window closes.”