Ex-England striker Bent could imagine scapegoat Pogba joining Liverpool or City

Darren Bent is confident that there would be many teams interested in Paul Pogba's services if the midfielder becomes available on the market. As per the former Tottenham and England striker, even Liverpool or Manchester City could join a potential race for the Frenchman.

"At times you have to feel a bit sorry for him. He’s the scapegoat for absolutely everything," the 36-year-old told talkSPORT. "Even when he’s not playing people blame him and they’re always talking about him.

"But when you talk about Manchester United selling him, I think there’s going to be a whole host of teams lining up to get him. When someone like a Paul Pogba comes available on the market, and let’s not forget he’s only 26, there’s going to be so many takers.

"It wouldn’t surprise me if teams like Manchester City come in for him. I can see him getting in Liverpool’s team, too. If he’s on top, top form he can get in most teams in the world.

"One thing you can’t question about Pogba is his quality. I’ve heard people call him an average footballer and that is complete nonsense. He is a top footballer."

Meanwhile, Pogba has been linked with a potential move away from United, with Real Madrid and Juventus interested in the midfielder's services.

A United Academy graduate, Pogba left Old Trafford to join Juventus in 2012. In four seasons with the Bianconeri, the midfielder made 178 appearances, scored 34 goals, registered 40 assists and won 8 trophies, including 4 Serie A titles.

In August 2016, Pogba returned United for an unheard-of fee of €105m plus €5m. His agent Mino Raiola reportedly received €27m from Juventus for making the move go through.

After his comeback to Old Trafford, the Frenchman has played 150 games, scored 31 goals, provided 31 assists, and won 2 trophies - the EFL Cup and the Europa League under Jose Mourinho in the 2016/17 season.

This term, Pogba's presence is non-existent. The 26-year-old has been struggling with never-ending ankle problems. Paul has taken part in just 8 of United's 36 games so far and collected 2 assists.