'Pogba has always been a champion' - De Zerbi addresses Marseille link with France midfielder

Roberto De Zerbi suggested Marseille may be interested in signing Paul Pogba, with the Olympians' boss saying he wants "only champions in my team".

Pogba is a free agent after his contract with Juventus was terminated last month by mutual consent.

The 2018 World Cup winner is currently serving an 18-month doping ban, which was downgraded from four years, but can return to training in January, and competitive action two months later.

Marseille are one of the clubs linked with securing his services, with president Pablo Longoria saying they would not "close the door" on a move for the 31-year-old.

While De Zerbi claimed he has not spoken about a potential transfer, he appeared open to trying "to find space" for Pogba.

"I would like to have only champions in my team," he told reporters. "Pogba has always been a champion, but honestly - during my discussions with staff - we have never spoken about it.

"In January, we especially need to find players for the needs we have. Obviously, if champions arrive, we will try to find space and make sure they can live together.

"That would absolutely not be a problem for me. When you have top players, it's not my problem but that of the opponents."

Marseille are currently second in Ligue 1 on 30 points - 10 behind leaders Paris Saint-Germain, on whom they have a game in hand.

De Zerbi's side will play Saint-Etienne in the Coupe de France round of 64 on Sunday, in what will be their final match of 2024.

Final preparations on the eve of our entry into this season's French Cup#ASSEOM | pic.twitter.com/oitbvRQEpw

— Olympique de Marseille(@OM_English) December 21, 2024