DC United in talks to sign Paul Pogba, Kevin De Bruyne move lined up | OneFootball

D.C. United are in talks to sign former Manchester United and Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba, according to The Athletic.

The Major League Soccer (MLS) side currently holds Pogba’s discovery rights. This league mechanism allows them to negotiate with the 32-year-old free agent exclusively.

The discovery rights system helps prevent bidding wars among MLS clubs. It allows teams to list up to five non-league players they can exclusively negotiate with.

Pogba has been without a club since parting ways with Juventus by mutual consent in late 2023.

His playing career was put on hold following a positive anti-doping test for testosterone last September, which initially resulted in a four-year ban.

However, the suspension was later reduced to 18 months, allowing Pogba to return to competitive football in March 2025.

D.C. United are determined to turn the tide after a poor start to the MLS season. They see Pogba as a potential marquee signing to bolster their profile and performances.

D.C. could finalise a deal quickly, as Pogba’s free-agent status means they do not have to sign him during the standard transfer window, which re-opens on July 24.

Besides Pogba, D.C. United are reportedly eyeing Manchester City midfielder and captain Kevin De Bruyne.

The Belgian playmaker has announced he will leave the Etihad Stadium this summer after seven years.

Inter Miami holds his discovery rights but seem uninterested in following it up, allowing other teams to pounce if he decides to leave Europe.

Pogba has been a regular at MLS games this year, including fixtures involving LAFC and Inter Miami.

Landing a player of Pogba’s stature would be a major coup for both D.C. United and MLS.

Besides his on-field talent, Pogba’s global profile could inject fresh star power into the league.

Also, the prospect of the Frenchman and De Bruyne running the show in the engine room is tantalising.