Christian Falk has confirmed Real Madrid’s interest in Raphael Varane ahead of the opening of the January transfer window.
The La Liga giants’ pursuit comes following powerhouse centre-back David Alaba’s season-ending anterior cruciate ligament tear, making him the third player at the club to sustain the injury this season; Thibaut Courtois and Eder Militao are also overseeing extended spells on the sidelines.
Alas, Carlo Ancelotti is seemingly looking to turn to a former flame in the form of Varane, a player that he’s well aware can get a job done when needed with his world-class defensive and aerial abilities.
Varane’s situation at Old Trafford this term has raised the eyebrows of supporters; he is undoubtedly one of United’s most reliable and proven centre-halves but has found himself behind the likes of Victor Lindelof and Jonny Evans in the pecking order. He has made just five Premier League starts thus far, which is said to have left the Frenchman feeling ‘forced out’.
Varane’s contract situation complexes matters
Next month, Varane is technically free to talk to foreign clubs over a free transfer in the summer of 2024 – when his contract expires. He is said to be hopeful that United will trigger his one-year extension, but if an approach is made from Madrid over a potential mid-season switch, the 30-year-old could sway towards a return to the Bernabeu.