Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane could snub interest from Manchester United to return to France with Paris Saint-Germain.
The centre-back has spent the past decade with Los Blancos, but he could be on the move with his contract expiring in June next year.
United have been heavily linked with his services, but El Confidencial claims that the Frenchman is keen on returning to his homeland this summer.
The Red Devils have monitored him closely over the years, but Varane is reportedly leaning towards moving to Ligue 1 with PSG.
Los Blancos are holding out for around €60 million to sanction the defender’s sale but could be willing to lower their price tag up to €50m.
Sportslens view:
United are searching for a new centre-back partner for Harry Maguire, and Varane would be a world-class signing for them with his winning mentality.
They failed to sign him when he was with Lens in 2011. They made another attempt in 2019, but the Frenchman decided to stay in Madrid.
The club are reportedly planning a third attempt to sign him. It could end in disappointment with Varane ‘only contemplating’ a return to France.
Les Parisiens had Marquinhos and Presnel Kimpembe as the regular central defensive combination last season after Thiago Silva’s departure.
They failed to fill Silva’s void last summer, and Varane would be the ideal replacement. Marquinhos could play higher up in a defensive midfield role next term.
United missing out on Varane would be a big blow, but they are keeping their options open with Pau Torres and Jules Kounde also on their radar.
A move for Brighton & Hove Albion’s Ben White could also be on the cards, but there is plenty of competition with Arsenal reportedly leading the race.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
Read: Real Madrid offered the chance to sign Manchester United forward Anthony Martial.
