Real Madrid are set to end their pursuit of Manchester United playmaker Paul Pogba, as per reports. The Madrid chief has highlighted the emergence of youngster Federico Valverde as the reason they have stopped the pursuit of the player they have chased for the past two years.
The Uruguay international has enjoyed a breakthrough season for the Blancos this season, as his dynamic and energetic display in central midfield has earned him positive reviews.
The 21-year-old has enjoyed more playing time this season under Zinidine Zidane, making 32 appearances across all competitions.
He joined Madrid in 2016, he was loaned out to gain first team experience, since his return, he has been a very reliable presence in the first team.
AS reported that the display of the youngster has convinced the Blanco chiefs, and they are prepared to end the chase of the world cup winner.
Paul Pogba has endured a troubled season so far as he has suffered with injuries, he has not played first team football since September, he made his return in early December in their 2-0 loss against Watford.
Pogba, according to his manager has resumed light training and he should be available for selection later in the month. There will be a selection dilemma for manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer when Pogba finally returns as January signing Bruno Fernandez has fit in effortlessly into the side.
He was instrumental again when the Red Devils defeated City neighbor in the derby. It will be difficult to drop the Portuguese for the returning Pogba, but the possibility of pairing the two stars is quite open to the manager.
Madrid are still on a lookout for new additions, but they see no reason they should invest €150 million on a player who has shown fitness issues.