Transfer news - Manchester United lead chase to sign Raphael Varane but Real Madrid remain stubborn - report

ByThe Editorial Team

Updated 23/06/2021 at 14:06 GMT

Raphael Varane has told the Real Madrid hierarchy that he wants a new challenge, sending England´s top clubs onto red alert as they chase one of the world´s top centre-backs. And according to the Athletic, Manchester United currently lead the race to sign the Frenchman. But Real are unlikely to let him go cheap, and could dig their heels in to keep Varane for one more season.

Manchester United are the frontrunners in the race to sign Real Madrid defender and France international Raphael Varane, according to the Athletic.

The report suggests that, despite informal interest from Manchester City and Chelsea, United are in the best position to sign the centre-back for around £40-45 million.

Varane's representatives have informed the Madrid hierarchy that he wants a fresh challenge, and with just one year left on his contract Los Blancos could be persuaded into cashing in early.

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Real are also looking to raise funds in their pursuit of Paris Saint-Germain superstar Kylian Mbappe.

However, The Daily Mirror are reporting that Real Madrid will not entertain an offer made by Manchester United for Varane, even if such an offer was to include Paul Pogba as part of the deal.

Pogba also has just one year left on his contract.

Pogba could be used as a makeweight in a deal for Varane

Image credit: Getty Images

With Real Madrid rebuilding they are unlikely to let their star defender go for cheap, but with United desperate for a world-class defensive partner for Harry Maguire, their financial firepower could provide the necessary leverage to help push a deal through.

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