Pogba told Barcelona are 'best club in the world' amid Real Madrid talk

Hi Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba should not forget
Barcelona's standing in the game when deciding on his
next move, says Eric Abidal.

Eric Abidal has told Paul Pogba to remember that
Barcelona are "the best club in the world" as he
contemplates his next move.

Reports in Spain have suggested Real Madrid are going
to make a big play to try and sign the Juventus and
France midfielder this summer, with the player also
linked to both Manchester clubs in the Premier League.

Barca, though, have also been long-term admirers and
Abidal – a four-time Liga winner during six years at
Camp Nou between 2007 and 2013 – thinks Pogba, 23,
should bear Barca's stature in mind.

"It is no surprise that the great teams want to sign
Pogba," he said to Cadena COPE.

"People talk about his talent, but he is still young. He is
doing very well at Juventus but he did not show his best
level during his first Euro 2016 game.

"He can be an interesting player for Real Madrid, but he
is already a key piece for Juventus.

"I don't know what his dream is and he has to make his
own decision, but Barca is the best club in the world."

Abidal also stressed his hope that Neymar would not be
tempted to join Paris Saint-Germain amid speculation
they are willing to activate his €190 million release
clause, with a Barca contract renewal yet to be signed

The 36-year-old added that Javier Mascherano - who has
been linked with Juventus - would be fondly remembered
if he opted to leave the club.

Abidal continued: "Neymar decided to join Barcelona
because he wanted to join the best team in the world
and win trophies.

"I hope this MSN trident [Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and
Neymar] stay together for many years. Barcelona plays
the most beautiful style.

"Mascherano deserves respect for all he gave to the
club. If he goes, he should leave through the front door
to a great farewell. He is still an important player and has
to take a decision."

Abidal, a former France international, then had his say on
Dimitri Payet's rapid rise to superstardom, which reached
new levels after his stunning winning goal against
Romania in Euro 2016's opening match.

"He is in a great moment," said the ex-Monaco defender.
"I think he will be the best player of the tournament."

A laughing Abidal added: "Now I hope Barcelona sign
him!"