Mino Raiola is chasing a bumper deal for the Frenchman, while Rio Ferdinand could be set for a switch to Manchester United's rivals - of sorts - and Harry Redknapp is gagged. Manchester City are keeping serious tabs on former Manchester United starlet Paul Pogba at Juventus.

The Frenchman's agent, Mino Raiola, is pushing the Italians for a significant new deal to reflect his growing stature at the club, with only two years left on his present package worth £900,000-a-year. Sources close to the Italian club have indicated that they are confident of tying Pogba down, with the promise of making him the club's central midfield fulcrum for the long-term future. Andrea Pirlo, those close to the club say, is set to be released at the end of the season.

However, City are keeping a close eye on the 20-year-old's situation, with the youngster's hero, Patrick Vieira, having scouted him heavily when he was at Old Trafford. Pogba had cold feet about making a direct switch to City at the time due to his time spent in the red half of the City.

City remain close to Raiola following their dealings with the agent during Mario Balotelli's City career, and are keen to be at the front of the queue should his negotiations with the Turin outfit break down.