Manchester United now negotiating for Pogba as they hunt replacement Fichajes Real Madrid Frenchman is clear he wants to join Real Madrid

What only a few days ago was a flat out no has now turned into a request for patience in Manchester United's stance towards a summer exit for star midfielder Paul Pogba.

The Frenchman has reiterated his desire to leave to both directors and coach Ole Gunnar Solsjkaer, who helped him to rediscover his best form last season.

Pogba has already told his teammates that he expects to leave and his most likely destination is Real Madrid, although he has also fielded calls from his former club Juventus.

The Italian club are pushing hard to persuade him to consider a return to Turin, aided by new tax laws in Italy.

Both Pogba and his agent Mino Raiola have decided that three years is enough at Old Trafford, with the player keen for a new sporting project, while Raiola looks for better financial terms.

The decision has been taken and is not up for debate, so Manchester United have asked Pogba for time as they search for a replacement and have requested that he join the team for pre-season training and a tour of Australia.

Sergej Milinkovic-Savic is the target that the Red Devils are after, though Lazio are complicating matters by demanding 120 million euros for his services, which the English club believe to be excessive.

Real Madrid have now contacted Manchester United twice over Pogba and expect negotiations to begin, but they are reluctant to rupture what they believe to be a good relationship with another of the world's biggest clubs.

Zinedine Zidane has made it clear that he wants his compatriot in the side and insists on his signing.

Whilst three years ago, Real Madrid allowed the chance to sign him to pass by, Los Blancos will not permit a repeat this summer.