After agreeing the long-awaited transfer of Jadon Sancho from Borussia Dortmund, Manchester United are turning their attention to defensive reinforcements. Real Madrid centre-back Raphael Varane is at the top of their list, and transfer insider Fabrizio Romano has provided an update on the situation.
According to the Italian journalist, Varane wants to try something new. He has spent exactly a decade at the Spanish capital and is nearing the end of his contract. His current deal is set to expire in 2022, and he is not talking with the club regarding an extension. During this time, he has established himself as one of the best defenders in the world and has won everything there is to win playing for Los Blancos.
So, rather than risk losing him for free next summer, Madrid could cash in on the player and let him go to Old Trafford this summer itself. Manchester United have been interested in bringing the World Cup winner over for a very long time, and he could finally make the switch this time around.
While personal terms will not be an issue, United have not made an official bid for the defender yet. It will not be a hasty agreement, and both clubs will take their time to finalise the deal. An estimated fee of around €40 million is being reported for the 28-year-old.
With Sergio Ramos leaving the club, Varane’s departure will leave Carlo Ancelotti without two of his starting centre-backs. The Italian could arrange for reinforcements to make up the numbers, since only four first team defenders will be left in the given situation.
