Raphael Varane
Manchester United are close to finalizing a deal with Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane, sources have told ESPN.
The France international, whose contract at the Bernabeu expires in June 2022, is Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s top defensive target and sources say United are ready to move for the 28-year-old.
United had been considering Villarreal defender Paulo Torres as an alternative case, but after France’s surprise exit from Euro 2020 following Tuesday’s Round of 16 loss to Switzerland, United is trying harder to sign Varane.
Despite Varane’s contract coming to an end, Madrid value the center-back at €70 million – a price United believe is too high for a player entering the final year of his contract.
Real Madrid
But Madrid need to offload players to fund the rebuilding of Carlo Ancelotti’s squad and United believe the deal can be picked up for €50 million.
Madrid could use the money raised by Varane’s departure to move for Torres, who has a €65 million release clause at Europa League champions Villarreal.
Torres contributed an excellent performance for Spain in Euro 2020. With Varane set to follow Sergio Ramos out of the Bernabeu and Ramos set to leave as a free agent, Madrid will need reinforcements at the back.
However, Madrid’s interest in Torres could be put on hold for 12 months if the Spanish club opts to move for Erling Harland or Kylian Mbappe.
Madrid’s financial situation is complicated and a Galaxy signing would mean Torres would have to wait until 2022.
Sources told ESPN that the defender is still a target for Madrid “both now and next year” and that Torres prefers to stay in Spain rather than try the Premier League.
Villarreal have also shown interest in star striker Gerard Moreno, but the club is in a good financial position and does not need to offload players this summer.
