Real Madrid step-up ‘plan’ to sign transfer target Paul Pogba but Man Utd ‘ready to offer him new deal’

REAL MADRID believe Manchester United have "softened" their stance on Paul Pogba, according to reports in Spain.

Zinedine Zidane revealed on Saturday that Los Blancos have a "plan" to finally capture the French midfielder.

But AS believe it relies on United changing their tune on the £180million price tag that has so far proved successful in deterring prospective buyers.

Real are relying on pressure from the player and his agent, Mino Raiola, to force through a sale.

Both have made public their desire for the Red Devils to relinquish their record signing, something the club are resistant to doing despite his inconsistent form.

In fact, report that United have gone as far as offering Pogba a new contract.

It is said the 26-year-old's approach to pre-season is impressing Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, both on and off the field.

Time is running out for the Norwegian to sign a replacement if Pogba's exit is given the green light.

The English transfer window shuts on August 8 whilst Madrid have until September 2 to cut deals.

According to AS, Real are ready to wait until their deadline day to secure the new central midfielder Zidane is desperate for.

After his side's defeat to Bayern Munich in the United States, the coach commented on Pogba's situation: “We have a plan with the club and we’ll see what happens.

“But today we are focused on tomorrow’s game [against Bayern Munich].

“What happens next will already be seen. You know many things, but we will see. Lots of things can happen.

“We have to respect things, with the club we know what we want and what can happen until the 31st we can make changes, departures and also that they can come."