Pranav Nair
Florentino Perez reveals that Manchester United are yet to make a bid for Raphael Varane
According to reliable sports journalist, Fabrizio Romano on Twitter, Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has revealed that they have not received any official bids for Raphael Varane, amidst interest from Manchester United.
United are long-term admirers of the 28-year-old and have earmarked him as a candidate to partner skipper Harry Maguire in defence. The Frenchman is in the final year of his contract and could be available for free next summer.
As things stand, the defender is currently with the French team at the Euros. The World Champions are looking to win consecutive international crowns for the second time in their history.
Perhaps curiously, Perez has not dismissed the notion that the player could leave the Santiago Bernabeu this summer. He does however hint that the Frenchman will come clean and say it out if that’s the plan.
A number of clubs including Manchester City, Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea are keeping tabs on Varane. However, it would appear that no club has yet made a move. Whether United can now seize the initiative remains to be seen.
According to The Athletic (Subscription Required), the Spanish giants are certain that Varane is seeking a new challenge after a decade at the Santiago Bernabeu. The Frenchman rejected an offer of a two-year extension and his representatives have already informed Madrid of his wishes.
Transfer tactics?
The report from the Athletic appears to contradict Perez’s statement regarding Varane informing the club about his decision. The Spanish honcho is no fool and knows that the player’s contract situation puts Real at a disadvantage when it comes to negotiations.
If Varane is to leave, Los Blancos will be keen to get top dollar for a player currently in his prime. Whether his comments are designed to create a bidding war or create confusion amongst the chasing pack remains to be seen.
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Varane’s spell at Real has been largely successful, with him winning four Champions Leagues and three La Liga titles. A serial winner, his addition will bring much to a United squad looking to establish themselves at the top.
