Manchester United

Manchester United: Ian McGarry on United’s Raphael Varane pursuit

|
Image for Manchester United: Ian McGarry on United’s Raphael Varane pursuit

On the latest instalment of the Transfer Window podcast, Ian McGarry revealed Manchester United are tracking Real Madrid’s Raphael Varane ahead of a possible summer transfer.

The 28-year-old defender has had a stellar career, winning four Champions League crowns, three La Liga titles and one Copa del Rey, as well as the 2018 World Cup while on international duty with France.

However, Varane’s contract is set to expire in the summer of 2022, and the experienced centre-back appears to be some way away from agreeing to terms on a fresh deal with the reigning Spanish champions.

The prolonged talks have led to speculation that Los Blancos could be prepared to part ways with Varane in the summer instead of risking losing him on a free transfer 12 months later, and McGarry has claimed United are one of the sides keeping a close eye on the situation.

He said: (29:30) “I was speaking to a friend and contact at Real Madrid yesterday and asking about Raphael Varane and his situation at the Santiago Bernabeu, and it seems that at 27 they’re not willing to give him the contract that he is asking for, which is substantial in terms of payment, even though obviously they will have to replace Sergio Ramos sooner rather than later.

“And he told me that Manchester United had expressly said that they wanted to be kept up to date with that status and Varane’s future.”

TIF Thoughts on Varane to United…

Although the Red Devils have made great progress under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer this season, having reached the Europa League semi-finals and second place in the Premier League, their centre-back pairing is still a cause for concern.

Many pundits and journalists alike have suggested United need to dip into the transfer market this summer in order to find Harry Maguire a faster and more suitable defensive partner, and Varane would certainly tick those boxes.

Whether the 20-time English champions can pull this deal off remains to be seen, but United may regret it if they miss out on the Madrid man’s signature this summer.

In other news: ‘From my time playing with him’ – Ex-teammate speaks out on Maguire after alleged MUFC incident

Share this article