This archive report was first published on 7 August 2019.
Paul Pogba's highly anticipated move to Real Madrid has hit a snag, with sources suggesting that former Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho's connections to the La Liga club may be behind the collapse of the deal.
According to Eurosport, El Pais journalist Diego Torres stated that the deal is unlikely to fall through due to Mourinho's influence, citing the former boss's close ties to Real Madrid president Florentino Perez.
As reported by Torres, Mourinho's relationship with Perez is so strong that Pogba's move was considered a 'prickly issue' for the Real Madrid president.
Notwithstanding Manchester United's hefty £150 million asking price, Perez was reportedly interested in signing the French midfielder, but has since stalled on the deal without providing a clear reason.
It is worth noting that Mourinho has previously described Pogba as a 'virus' and has informed his next bosses of his need to be in full control of his players and dressing room.
With Mourinho said to have struck an unofficial agreement with Real Madrid executives, it is unclear whether Pogba's move to the Santiago Bernabeu will ultimately materialize.
