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Paul Pogba reportedly turned down a move to Manchester City due to fears of receiving an angry 'backlash' from Manchester United supporters.
Pogba, 29, is out of contract with United at the end of the season and is expected to leave Old Trafford on a free transfer.
Manchester City were among a number of clubs interested in Pogba, with Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain and Juventus also linked with the France international.
According to The Times, Pogba agreed personal terms with City, who were reportedly willing to meet the midfielder's wage demands and offer him the opportunity to compete for a first-team place under Pep Guardiola.
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However, Pogba turned down the chance to move to the Etihad because he was concerned about the backlash from Manchester United fans.
According to the report, Pogba felt that his life in the north west would become unbearable because of the negative reaction the move would receive.
Carlos Tevez was the last high-profile player to move from United to City, with the Argentine instantly becoming a villain in the eyes of many Red Devils supporters.
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Pogba reportedly turned down City's offer two weeks ago and now looks destined to join either Juventus or PSG.
His representatives held talks with former club Juve this week, where he spent four successful years before returning to United in a then world-record £89m transfer in 2016.
PSG are also reportedly considering a move for Pogba, despite the midfielder failing to live up to expectations since rejoining United.
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In total, Pogba has scored 39 goals in 233 games for United – winning only the Europa League and Carabao Cup during his time at Old Trafford.
Speaking back in March, Pogba admitted his second spell at United had been a difficult experience.
"The truth has to be said - there have been difficult times, especially when I was at Manchester," Pogba told Telefoot.
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"When I haven't played or when the results weren't there, coming here [the French squad] gives me a boost.
"It's difficult because a lot has happened, from the change in manager to my injury. We're no longer fighting for a title, so it's neutral.
"I want to win titles, I want to play for something. Whether it be this year or even the previous ones, we haven't won anything. That's what's sad, in the end."
Topics: Manchester City, Manchester United, Football, Premier League, Paul Pogba, Transfers
Rory O'Callaghan