Man Utd identify 'new Paul Pogba' - and he only costs €25m

Tom Weber

15 Jan 2026 03:12 CST
3 min read

Manchester United believe that Stade de Reims youngster Patrick Zabi could be the next Paul Pogba, according to a report.

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The towering central midfielder is in his first full season of first-team football. Zabi has so far made 18 appearances for Reims across all competitions, rotating between the starting XI and the bench.

With a pair of goals and three assists to his name, Zabi has become one of the Ligue 2 side's most promising prospects. Unsurprisingly, then, interest in the young Ivorian is ramping up.

According to Sacha Tavolieri, Man Utd and especially Paris FC are determined to sign Zabi. The latter, it is claimed, have already seen a whopping three bids rejected by Reims.

These bids were made in December, but it is believed that the Red Bull-backed side will return with another offer this month. Their most recent proposal clocked in at €15 million upfront and a further €10m in bonuses.

Man Utd want Zabi

However, Reims have made it clear that they want a guaranteed €25m package. Reaching this fee via potential add-ons is not going to cut it for what they believe is one of the best talents in French football.

Paris FC certainly hold appeal because of the Red Bull connection. Zabi, Tavolieri claims, has already spoken to the energy drink company's head of global soccer, Jurgen Klopp.

However, Man Utd are also ready to put their faith in the teenager. Tavolieri reports that Red Devils chiefs believe he could become a Paul Pogba-esque player in the future. Man Utd are in desperate need of multiple midfield reinforcements.

While their top targets are proven Premier League players like Elliot Anderson, Adam Wharton and Carlos Baleba, they will likely only be able to sign one of them. The other midfield signing is likely to be a cheaper option. At €25m, Zabi looks to be an exciting opportunity.

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