Real Madrid want to complete Pogba signing as quickly as possible Real Madrid Want deal done before July 1

Real Madrid have set an ambitious target to seal the signing of Paul Pogba: July 1, the day Manchester United return for pre-season training.

They know at the Santiago Bernabeu that the Frenchman's arrival will not be easy, due to the cost involved and United's stance on the matter, and, from Monday, they have left themselves just two weeks to complete the deal.

Thus far, United have been unwilling to negotiate Pogba's exit, though his statements on Sunday may change their position. This is the 26-year-old's first step towards trying to force the transfer as he signals his intent whilst also opting to go public in his desire to leave. There have been more aggressive tactics used in the past as players have looked to force their way out, but his declarations are nevertheless significant after being named as Zinedine Zidane's No.1 target.

They want him now

In order to avoid Pogba returning to United for pre-season, Madrid will need to act quickly. Securing the transfer earlier would enable the midfielder to have an extra week of rest, too, as the English side begin pre-season on July 1 while Los Blancos will start theirs a week later on July 8, at which point they will travel to Canada.

The situation shows that there has already been plans made around Pogba's arrival, a player Zidane believes will be a key piece in his new-look Madrid side next season.

From Madrid's perspective, they do not want to get implicated in any soap operas this summer and, as such, they will look to be as forthright as possible in negotiations. This method has already been successful as Los Blancos have completed the signings of Luka Jovic, Ferland Mendy and Eden Hazard in June, as well as having already sealed the arrivals of Rodrygo Goes and Eder Militao months ago. Zidane wants to start pre-season with all of the footballers he wants in his squad at his disposal as he looks to create a sense of cohesion before the beginning of the 2019/20 campaign.

Zidane considers the work he will undertake in North America this July to be vital. There will be tactical changes that need time and training, which is why it is essential for the Frenchman to be a part of the squad from day one.

Madrid, sensitive to the situation, want to satisfy their coach not only with the signing of Pogba but also the speed with which they complete the transfer.

Pogba, meanwhile, began his holidays on Sunday after a week of promotional campaigns in Asia, which has further exemplified the midfielder's impact in the eastern market, another factor to consider in Madrid making him their most expensive ever signing.

Club record fee

Madrid's desire to sign him, Pogba's status as a worldwide superstar and United's refusal to sell will surely make the Frenchman the club's record signing. They are aware that if they want to fast track the signing of Pogba, they will have to pay more than 150 million euros.