Manchester United endured a whole summer of speculation surrounding Paul Pogba’s unstable future at the club.
With the Frenchman clashing with manager Jose Mourinho, widespread reports suggested he wanted out with Real Madrid and Juventus showing interest.
And it seems the Italian giants are still keeping tabs on the talented midfielder by exploring the possibility of a return.
According to Italian publication TuttoJuve, both clubs remain in negotiations over Pogba.
But should United consider letting their £89m man return to his former club, they are not willing to let him leave on the cheap.
The report claims United have made it clear they want defender Alex Sandro to be included in any potential deal.
Mourinho is a long-term admirer of the Brazilian and attempted to sign him in the previous transfer window.
However, executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward was reluctant to meet Juve’s £60m plus asking price.
But with defence a key concern for the Portuguese boss, the Red Devils are ready to play hardball over Pogba in a bid to secure Sandro’s signature.
The 27-year-old remains under contract with Juve until 2020, while Pogba’s deal with United runs until 2021.
Last week, Juventus director Pavel Nedved, spoke about the possibility of trying to prise the World Cup winner away from Old Trafford in January.
“I think Pogba is one of the best players in the world, so it’d be wonderful, but he’s at Manchester and therefore talking about it is futile,” he said.
“We’re alert on the transfer market, but January is a long way away.”
The Serie A giants will likely face competition from Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain should he be put up for sale though.
Italian newspaper Tuttosport reckon both clubs are viable January destinations for the player.
The Italian daily claims United, despite their determination to keep Pogba, are aware that if the player wants to quit then he will.