Real Madrid's hopes of signing Paul Pogba seem to fade with each passing day as the Premier League transfer window nears its close on August 8 with Manchester United standing firm in refusing to sell the midfielder.
Their latest response has been to demand 200 million euros for the World Cup winner, a figure which is far beyond what Real Madrid would be prepared to pay.
It is a clear statement from the directors of the club that they consider him to be a key piece of the puzzle for next season.
Pogba continues to train and has not shown any indication that he would try to force a move, even wearing the captain's armband on the club's tour of Australia.
He is well aware that if he is to have a chance of joining Real Madrid, he must behave in the correct way, though it seems unlikely a deal will come to fruition this summer.
There can be no accusation that management at the Spanish club haven't tried to fulfil Zinedine Zidane's wish to sign Pogba, but it has been clear that Manchester United's owners have no intention of even negotiating, let alone selling for a price which could be considered reasonable.
Pogba himself has requested a change of scenery, looking for a new challenge and one he would like to come under the leadership of Zidane, though neither of the two men are happy about it.
For the coach, he knows that it may now be time to consider more realistic targets who are within the club's budget.
Florentino Perez will meet with Jose Angel Sanchez and Zidane to analyse the situation, equally of the current squad as well as possible additions, though the midfield is a clear weak link.
The club's sporting management continue to believe that Dani Ceballos should stay, though neither the player or the coach expected that to happen not long ago, while a move for Pogba has become impossible.
Donny van de Beek and Christian Eriksen are other options which are under consideration, though sales remain the priority.
There are too many players in the squad and loan moves could now be considered, with the club looking to make as many as six outgoing deals, with James Rodriguez likely to be the first.
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