Manchester United's Paul Pogba, in Japan on a promotional visit, told reporters that "it could be time for a new challenge", with Real Madrid coach known to be highly keen on the midfielder. What's interesting is that the phrase Pogba used is the exact same one that Eden Hazard used as he was working to set up his move to the Bernabéu, a transfer that was completed on Thursday with his presentation to the Real Madrid fans.

Pogba sends come and get me plea to Real Madrid

Real Madrid have been encouraging transfer targets to speak out in public to put pressure on their clubs to start conversations with Madrid. Indeed, Bernabéu bosses had been frustrated earlier this month when they attempted to speak to Manchester United over Pogba's price only to be told he was not for sale at any price. Madrid at that point recognised that the only way they could start talks was it Pogba came out and said something publicly - something he's now done.