Manchester United are reportedly ‘close’ to finalising a deal to sign Raphael Varane from Real Madrid.
Varane has emerged as the Red Devils’ leading defensive target this summer after failing to agree terms on a new contract at Real Madrid, the centre-back’s current deal set to expire in the summer of 2022.
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United have been long-term admirers of the France international and are understood to have been given ‘encouragement’ that Real Madrid are prepared to sell for a ‘realistic’ fee this summer.
Varane has spent a decade with the Spanish giants and has enjoyed a wealth of success at the Bernabeu, winning three league titles and four Champions League trophies during his time with the club.
The 28-year-old had initially been valued at €70m, though United are understood to be confident of securing his signature in a deal closer to €50m, with Real in need of funds for their rebuild under new manager Carlo Ancelotti.
Real could use the funds raised by Varane’s departure to sign Pau Torres, the Villarreal centre-back having also been linked with a move to the Premier League and containing a release clause of around €65m in his contract.
United are set to complete their first piece of major transfer business after agreeing a £72.9m deal for Borussia Dortmund winger Jadon Sancho, who is set to sign a long-term contract at Old Trafford.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has also been linked with the signing of a defensive midfielder, whilst there is interest from the Red Devils in Atletico Madrid full-back Kieran Trippier.
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