Allegri: Man Utd move would be backward step for Pogba

Juventus manager Massimiliano Allegri has insisted that Manchester United target Paul Pogba would be taking a backward step if he returns to Old Trafford this summer.

Speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport, the Italian tactician said that Juventus, who have won five successive Serie A titles, must be considered among the four best sides in Europe, and if Pogba were to rejoin United, it would represent a regression in the 23-year-old's career path.

New United manager José Mourinho has already secured the signings of Eric Bailly, Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Henrikh Mkhitaryan this summer, but Pogba is believed to be the Portuguese coach's number one target.

It is thought that United have always retained an interest in bringing Pogba back to Old Trafford ever since the talented French midfielder left the club in 2012.

But the Red Devils were previously discouraged by the thought of breaking the bank to sign a player they previously allowed to leave on a free transfer.

However, with Mourinho's arrival, United now seem determined to secure the services of Pogba, with reports in Italy recently suggesting that the club has already agreed terms on a €13 million a year, five year deal with Pogba, and will soon launch a world record breaking £100 million bid.

Juventus remain determined to hang on to Pogba, but United's offer will surely test their resolve, as the Bianconeri look to make a record bid of their own to sign Gonzalo Higuaín from Napoli.