Manchester United making progress with Raphael Varane deal

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French journalist Mohamed Bouhafsi says Manchester United are making good progress with a move for Raphael Varane.

United are said to have ‘almost’ reached an agreement with Varane on personal terms. Talks are said to be advanced.

He also says United are in discussions with Real Madrid, although have yet to submit a formal bid.

This seems to be how United work, based on the recent move for Jadon Sancho.

United know that Madrid are in a weak position due to Varane having just one year remaining on his current contract.

By convincing Varane to join, it makes Madrid’s chances of keeping him more or less impossible, and gives United a leg up in negotiations.

While there could be some fluctuation either way, United are likely to end up paying around £50 million for the Frenchman. RMC Sport report Real are waiting for United’s offer.

For so long United fans had feared Varane was using the club to sign a new contract extension at Madrid.

While this still remains a worry, daily updates seem to be firmly indicating Varane has set his sights on leaving the club and joining United.

Sky Sports reported earlier this week United had been given permission to speak to Varane.

Real are said to be fearful of losing the centre-back on a free transfer next summer.

Adding Varane in to partner Harry Maguire could be a game changing signing, and with Victor Lindelof as third choice, United’s options in defence will be stronger than any point since Sir Alex Ferguson retired.

Two signings already done

United have already signed back-up goalkeeper Tom Heaton and long term target Jadon Sancho. The club are preparing to formally unveil the England winger.

Varane would solve the centre-back position and leave United looking towards midfield.

An addition right-back could also come in, and then attention will also turn to player sales.

The are a lot of players who could leave permanently or on loan and the goalkeeping position could see a big name exit.

Paul Pogba’s future still remains as unclear as ever too. Signing his France international teammate could end up convincing him to agree a new deal.

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