Real Madrid will not be making a formal approach for Raphael Varane this month despite numerous reports suggesting that the Frenchman could return to his former club.
The Spanish giants are being forced to navigate the absences of sidelined trio Thibaut Courtois, Eder Militao and David Alaba, all of whom have suffered long-term setbacks through anterior cruciate ligament injuries.
Alaba’s layoff came midway through December and, given the proximity to the January window, led to speculation of Madrid acquiring reinforcements at the earliest opportunity.
Amidst Varane’s decreased game-time and reduced role at Old Trafford in recent months, he was deemed a potential target for Carlo Ancelotti and co. However, the coach has now issued a definitive statement that Madrid will not be signing a centre-half this winter, saying (via the Metro): “At this moment, we aren’t considering signing another centre-back.
“We’re lacking important players, but we have another two who we believe in, Nacho [Fernández] and [Antonio] Rüdiger, and two others who can play there, [Aurélien] Tchouaméni and [Dani] Carvajal. So right now we aren’t considering a signing. I’ll repeat myself: yes, we won’t sign.”
Varane could exit Old Trafford in June
Varane, 30, has featured significantly more as of late due to Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof’s injuries. The four-time Champions League winner has partnered with fellow veteran Jonny Evans in a tumultuous period for the Reds, though it remains to be seen if he will retain his place in the starting 11 when current absentees make their return.
His contract expires at the end of the current season and United have opted against a one-year extension, meaning he is free to talk to foreign clubs from now over a potential summer move.
