Paul Pogba is thought to be leaning towards staying at Manchester United after Cristiano Ronaldo's superb second debut for the club.
The manner in which Ronaldo marked his return, plus the arrivals of Jadon Sancho and Raphael Varane, has given United fans hope that another successful period in their history might be ahead.
Such optimism will inevitably extend to the players and, in a potentially major development, The Athletic has learnt that Saturday had a significant bearing on Pogba’s thinking over his future.
The 28-year-old France international produced the latest in a string of fine displays, laying on two goals in United’s 4-1 victory to take his tally of assists so far this season to seven in four matches.
Pogba is into the final 12 months of his contract and there has still been no meaningful progress in negotiations over a new deal, raising the possibility of him leaving as a free agent next summer.
The lack of movement in talks suggested joining the likes of Paris Saint-Germain or Real Madrid looked likely and while that may yet occur, he is currently thought to be leaning the opposite way.
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How do United feel about Pogba's future?
United are realistic about the situation and, accordingly, have started making contingency plans in case the midfielder is to depart.
But those plans which can be shelved or amended if he agrees fresh terms.
What could see Pogba stay at United?
Recent events are believed to have had a profound effect on Pogba and there is now a feeling that opting to stay with the 20-time English champions is becoming a realistic possibility.
With the transfer window closed, talks are expected to resume in due course and although Pogba can speak to foreign suitors from January, it is anticipated that his mind could be made up sooner.
How Pogba and his team-mates fare in the campaign, the success of their signings, United’s longer-term vision and offers from elsewhere will be among many factors influencing his decision.
Is there anything else I need to know?
Yes, plenty. Pogba's future and plenty more are covered in David Ornstein's weekly column for The Athletic.
Go Deeper below.
(Photo: Serena Taylor/Newcastle United via Getty Images)
