Paul Pogba closing in on Man Utd return after having cast removed from injured right ankle

PAUL POGBA is closing in on a return from injury after having a cast removed from his injured right ankle.

The Frenchman, 26, has not played since the end of September in the 1-1 draw against Arsenal, but also suffered an ankle problem earlier in the month, missing two games.

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However, Pogba posted a video on his Instagram of a cast coming off his foot, suggesting his return to action is looming.

The World Cup winner was pictured working out intensely in 37 degree Dubai heat last month after being allowed to leave his team-mates to recuperate from injury.

Pogba was filmed in Dubai on an exercise bike with a protective boot on his right leg and wearing United training kit.

Old Trafford boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer faces another battle to keep the midfielder with the winter transfer window opening in seven weeks.

Pogba admitted in the summer he was seeking a “new challenge” with his brother and agent also confirming the 26-year-old wanted to leave Manchester.

But the playmaker was not sold, though it has not stopped Real Madrid and Juventus again showing transfer interest.

According to Spanish outlet El Desmarque, Real still want Pogba - and president Florentino Perez is ready to offer them James Rodriguez in a player-plus-cash deal.

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Rodriguez, 28, was one of the breakout stars of the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

But his Real career has floundered and the South American spent two seasons on learn at German giants Bayern Munich.

Rodriguez's agent Jorge Mendes wants to move the player out of Spain and look for a fresh destination.