Raphael Varane’s uncertain future at Real Madrid has once again sparked links to Manchester United.

The MEN report Real Madrid would consider cashing in on Varane at the right price, with just one year remaining on his contract.

Value is key, because with Varane turning 29 in June, United have to weigh up how much he still has left to offer.

Real Madrid v Real Sociedad - Liga Santander
(Photo by Indira/DAX Images/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

One of the reasons United previously backed off a move for Kalidou Koulibaly was his age. He turned 29 last summer – but the difference was he would have cost a mega fee.

The price for Varane is unclear. United might be able to strike a deal for around £50 million, which would be quite reasonable, and then there is also the scenario where a swap deal for Paul Pogba is agreed.

The difference between last summer and this summer is that United are more desperate for a centre-back.

 

Victor Lindelof has been inconsistent, Eric Bailly still can’t stay fit consistently or convince Solskjaer to play him ahead of the Swede, while Axel Tuanzebe is a distant fourth choice.

The danger here is that United end up making a mistake by chasing a big name who may be past his best, rather than paying for a younger defender.

Varane’s experience on the other hand could be a big plus, so United have to tread the line carefully and do due diligence on the Frenchman.

Reaction

The prospect of signing Varane has prompted a split response. When we put the topic out for discussion on social media there was a very cautious set of replies, as opposed to total enthusiasm for signing the Real Madrid defender.

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