Shrishh Attavar
Raphael Varane and Manchester United ready to make ‘final decision’ over future
As he enters the final 18 months of his contract at Manchester United, Raphael Varane seems to be heading in the direction of uncertainty over his future at the club. However, aside from the apparent friction between himself and manager Erik ten Hag, the club and the player will sit at the core of discussions when it comes to the long-term future of the 30-year-old centre-back at Carrington.
With his contract set to expire in 2025 (Transfermarkt), both parties will need to soon head towards a decision. Fabrizio Romano reveals that both sides shall take a call in the coming weeks on Varane‘s future at the club. Here is what he exclusively told GiveMeSport:
“There was interest in the summer, in terms of appreciating the player, but clubs never entered concrete negotiations with Varane or Manchester United.”
“He was never really close to leaving the club. In the next weeks and months, I think Manchester United and the player will make a final decision. The manager will also be involved in the process.”
The Lille-born player has started nine of the 14 Premier League games he has featured in this season and has been just alright. His frequent injury issues have prevented him from having a proper run of games. That has remained detrimental to his average form over the season.
Extension soon?
Clubs in Saudi Arabia showed interest in securing the services of Varane in the January transfer window. Moreover, even Bayern Munich displayed intent when it came to getting the former Real Madrid man on board. Things obviously did not transpire from a transfer perspective, but United are preparing to open discussions over a new contract with the 30-year-old.
From the perspective of the club, United need to oversee a potential contract extension. Varane is one of the best central defenders in the world. Let’s not even get to skill, the mere experience he brings to the table is second to none.
Lisandro Martinez’s unfortunate injury shall see Varane’s role take a much more prominent position as the season progresses. Apart from Varane and Licha, our other centre-backs including the likes of Harry Maguire, Jonny Evans and Victor Lindelof will have to step in and contribute to the team’s cause.
However, the friction between Varane and ETH might prove to be a barricade in negotiations over a new deal. Varane is one of the highest earners at United and in case he’s off the books, it might help the club from a PSR perspective but at the cost of an extremely valuable player.
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As they navigate these discussions in the coming weeks and months, the outcome will determine whether Raphael Varane remains a part of Manchester United’s plans for the future or explores new opportunities elsewhere; possibly a return to France.
