Zidane insists conversation with Man Utd wantaway star Pogba is ‘private’ after pair are pictured together in Dubai

ZINEDINE ZIDANE has insisted that his conversation with Paul Pogba will remain "private" and that it was "pure chance" that the pair were together in Dubai.

The French duo were pictured talking by the sea amid constant speculation that Zidane wants to bring Pogba to the Bernabeu.

And Zidane refused to confirm whether or not they were talking about potentially uniting in Spain.

He told reporters: "My encounter with Pogba was pure chance.

"As we know each other, we talk. And what we're talking about is personal.

"It's a conversation between me and him. We've known each other a long time."

The player himself has spoken repeatedly of his desire for a new challenge - while Zidane has previously gushed over the talents of his compatriot.

But United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer isn't concerned over the picture of them together.

He said: "It is a picture and when you are at Man United you get pictures taken of you but I don’t have a problem with that at all.

"Paul wants to stay here and play well and is part of our plan going forward.”

The 26-year-old has been missing on and off with a persistent ankle injury and last featured in the 1-1 draw with Arsenal on September 30.

The Red Devils have had an awful start to the season - having won just once in the league since the opening day victory over Chelsea.

And things could get even worse on Sunday - with Pogba again unlikely to feature when they face fierce rivals Liverpool at Old Trafford.

Meanwhile, Real Madrid sit top of La Liga under Zidane with 18 points from their first eight games.