Real Madrid Considering Move to Bring Raphael Varane Back to the Club
Real Madrid is considering a move to bring Raphael Varane back to the club, as the defender is ready to leave Manchester United.
Varane’s Struggles at Manchester United
Varane left the Bernabeu to join United in a £34 million deal in 2021, forming a formidable partnership at the heart of defense alongside Lisandro Martinez last season. However, the former France international has struggled for game time this season, starting only nine games in all competitions. He has been overshadowed by Harry Maguire, Johnny Evans, Victor Lindelof, and Luke Shaw, who have been preferred at the back on different occasions.
Real Madrid’s Interest in Varane
Real Madrid is hoping to sign another center-half in January, with David Alaba and Eder Militao sidelined. According to AS, Carlo Ancelotti is eager for Varane to return to the club. Varane would also be keen to return to the Spanish capital, and his salary at Old Trafford is not thought to be an obstacle.
Contract Situation and Potential Transfer Cost
After Varane joined United in the summer of 2021, the club announced that he had signed a deal keeping him at the club until June 2025. However, The Athletic recently reported that the deal actually runs out 12 months earlier, at the end of the current season. United does have the option to extend the contract by an additional year. If that option is not taken, Varane will be free to hold talks with foreign clubs from January 1 and sign a pre-contract agreement. AS reports that a deal for Varane to return to Real Madrid could cost as little as £8.6 million, considering the possibility of him leaving on a free transfer.
Uncertain Future for Varane and Casemiro
Varane and Casemiro both face uncertain futures at Manchester United, with clubs in the Saudi Pro League also showing interest in the pair. Erik ten Hag, the manager of Manchester United, would prefer to keep both players until the end of the season but will reportedly leave the final decision to the players themselves.
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