Could one of these Chelsea and Newcastle stars replace Paul Pogba?

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Gonzalo Higuaín’s imminent move north from Napoli to Juventus is set to start a transfer domino sequence, with Paul Pogba leaving the Old Lady. Manchester United rather than Real Madrid appears to be the Frenchman’s most likely destination, and Juventus will have to begin a search for his replacement.

It is likely to be hard task to replace the dynamic midfielder who scored ten goals in all competitions last season, and Massimiliano Allegri may choose to recruit a number of player to compensate rather than a like for like replacement. This may be forced upon him in any case due to Pogba’s versatility; there is a case for signing a defensive midfielder just as strong as the case to replace him the a ‘No 10’. Over the next couple of pages, we ran the rule over three Premier League candidates who might attract Juventus’ interest.

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Yaya Toure

Since Pep Guardiola took over at Manchester City, speculation has been rife that Yaya Toure will be shown the door. Guardiola sold Toure to City while he was Barcelona manager, and often played the Ivorian as a centre-back. It seems however, that Toure is being handed a chance prove himself under the new regime.

Toure was instrumental in City’s two title wins in 2012 and 2014, but in recent times has been subject to widespread criticism due to his lack of defensive work. Kolo’s younger brother is at his best when played in an advanced role behind Sergio Aguero, but with Kevin De Bruyne and David Silva to pick from that spot is usually occupied.

Sometimes the obvious solution is the best one, and Pogba and Toure have always drawn comparisons due to their trademark driving runs. Toure’s transformation from predominantly defensive player into one of the world’s most productive offensive midfielders has been remarkable; he has scored 54 Premier League goals in 188 starts.

There is no doubt that his legs have slowed in the last few years, and the more sedentary pace of Serie A could suit him perfectly.