The factor that moves Pogba even closer to Madrid

If Pogba was to stay at United next season, his salary could be reduced by up to 25%, according to 'The Sun'. The English newspaper this week released a list of players who would receive a decrease in their salary if the Red Devils failed to qualify for the Champions League next season, and the enigmatic Frenchman was among them.

United's fate was sealed this week after a disappointing draw against bottom side Huddersfield. Their performance was typical of their recent form under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, and although they originally started brightly under the Norweigan, they seem to have run out of gas towards the end of the campaign and will have to settle for Europa League football next season.

Playing in Europe's second string competition is almost certainly not something that will interest Pogba, who reportedly has no doubt that he wants to leave United this summer. The 26 year-old believes he has finished his cycle at United, and wants to leave to compete for trophies - something that he sees possible under the guidance of fellow countryman Zinedine Zidane at Real Madrid, who has already publically opened the door to the midfielder. The biggest obstacle, however, would be his price.

If the two clubs were to come to an agreement, his lofty salary could also be a problem. Pogba has received a tonne of criticism after his performance on Sunday, with the English press suggesting "he loses the ball and he doesn't even care" and that "his body language is terrible" amongst other comments.

Solskjaer himself added fuel to the fire after Sunday's dismal showing, saying "this type of performance will have repercussions on who stays and who goes". This will be music to the ears of those at the Bernabéu, who look set to make the Frenchman a big money signing this summer.