Manchester City has had strong interest in Paul Pogba, but they could already have the next Paul Pogba under contract in Olivier Ntcham.

Ntcham was signed by City from Le Havre in 2012 and is on loan this season at Genoa starting for Gian Piero Gasperini's side at the age of 19.

Ntcham is an all-around midfielder and is also French like Pogba.

Gasperini, who has a penchant for harnessing promising young footballers, is a keen admirer. He says: “Ntcham is an unbelievable player. He’s a surprise for me – Olivier is only 19, but plays like a leader. He will become a top player.”

Genoa’s president, Enrico Preziosi, adds: “I’ve been in the world of football 26 years and I’ve never seen a similar player at his age. He has an unlimited potential, and is really a fantastic talent.”