Raphael Varane is currently closer than ever to a Real Madrid exit. The Frenchman who has been weighing his options in search of a new challenge is keen to join Manchester United according to reports.
Real Madrid parted ways with manager Zinedine Zidane after a trophyless season. Los Blancos suffered over 60 injuries last season which proved to be a big reason for their failure to win a trophy. Real Madrid appointed former boss Carlo Ancelotti on a 3-year deal ahead of the likes of Antonio Conte and Joachim low. The Italian manager has already lost club captain Sergio Ramos to Paris Saint Germain as a free agent. Losing another experienced centre back in Raphael Varane would be a big blow to Real Madrid's chances of getting back to where they were 3 years ago.
Varane is one of the few Real Madrid players who is in his prime at the age of 28. Majority of the players at Ancelotti's disposal are either very raw like Vinicius Jr. and Rodrygo or past their prime like Modric and Marcelo. The centre back's decision to leave comes after a very tough personal and collective season at the Spanish capital in which Real Madrid marginally lost the La Liga and the Champions League. Raphael Varane came to Real Madrid 10 years ago as an 18-year-old with very little first-team experience. He was scouted by none other than Zinedine Zidane himself. Varane made his debut under Jose Mourinho and instantly became a favourite of the Bernabeu faithful. Mourinho showed immense trust in the youngster, often starting him in important games ahead of his experienced defenders. Varane has won a total of 18 major trophies with the Merengues.
Real Madrid did sign David Alaba for free but according to reports in Spain that decision has nothing to do with Varane's future. Varane was sidelined for a large part of last season due to injuries. One positive for the Los Blancos is that in his absence Nacho and Eder Militao formed a formidable Center half pairing. Both Militao and Nacho along with the Versatile Alaba could do the job for Real Madrid but Ancelotti would still be willing to bring in a replacement for Varane. Jules Kounde is a name being thrown in the mix after a breakthrough season with Sevilla.
As for Manchester United, they mean business this transfer window. The Red Devils have already broken the bank to sign long term target Jadon Sancho. With Raphael Varane to partner with Harry Maguire this season makes Manchester United a formidable side. United have also been linked to Keiren Trippier after the right-back was a rock in Atletico Madrid's title-winning side. Another big move was extending Veteran Edison Cavani's deal till 2022 after a good season leading the United attack. Manchester United ended the previous season in heartbreak despite having periods of promise. They ended the league campaign twelve points behind rivals Manchester City. To make matters worse Manchester United lost the Europa League final against Villareal on penalties.
As of this moment, Varane's departure from the Bernabeu looks imminent. Recent examples like Gini Wijnaldum have shown that his next destination shouldn't be assumed until it's official. Chelsea is another club said to be assessing the situation closely and may look to hijack the deal.
