Paul Pogba rejected: Frenchman sees hopes of Serie A return dashed as club turns down chance to sign midfielder with drug ban ticking down

Pogba is gearing up for his his return to football when his doping ban, which was cut from four years to 18 months, ends in March. The midfielder has been in search of a new club since his contract at Juventus was terminated and offered himself to Fiorentina.

After careful consideration, however, the Viola have knocked back his approach as his salary demands exceed their budget and they have no intention of bringing him to the club, Corriere dello Sport reports.

Pogba, 31, had been linked with a return to France with Marseille said to be interested, though coach Roberto De Zerbi has explained that they decided against adding the former Manchester United star to the squad.

The France international has not received any concrete offers so far despite his imminent return. A move to MLS has been reported as a possibility, but he may prefer to remain in Europe for the time being.