Report: Manchester City considering shock move for Pogba this summer

Manchester City are weighing up the possibility of signing Paul Pogba once his contract with rivals Manchester United expires this summer, sources told Rob Dawson of ESPN.

The Frenchman, who will be available on a free transfer, is open to the idea of crossing the divide to link up with Pep Guardiola's team, Dawson adds.

Guardiola and City are in the market for a central midfielder with club captain Fernandinho departing the Etihad Stadium come season's end. Declan Rice and Frenkie de Jong have also been linked to the club, but potential hurdles could prevent moves for either player. Rice is expected to command a transfer fee in excess of £100 million, according to Simon Stone of BBC Sport. Meanwhile, it's unclear if De Jong, whom Guardiola previously tried to sign in 2019, is willing to leave Barcelona.

Though a deal for Pogba would involve sizeable wages - he's reportedly earning £290,000 per week at Old Trafford - and a significant signing bonus, the lack of a transfer fee makes the 29-year-old an attractive option.

Both Paris Saint-Germain and Juventus are also believed to be interested in the World Cup winner, who has likely already played his final match for Manchester United after suffering a calf injury last month.

Signing Borussia Dortmund striker Erling Haaland remains Manchester City's top priority heading into the summer transfer market, according to Dawson. The club is reportedly closing in on securing the 21-year-old's coveted signature and, barring any late twists, will trigger his €75-million release clause to finalize the deal.