Manchester United have reportedly made significant progress in their pursuit of Real Madrid star Raphael Varane. The Red Devils are said to have spoken to the representatives of the 28-year-old French defender ahead of a purported summer switch.
Raphael Varane has entered the final year of his current contract at Real Madrid and is said to be angling for a move out of the club after refusing to sign an extension. The World Cup-winning defender is believed to be looking for a new challenge after helping Los Blancos to four Champions Leagues and a couple of La Liga titles since joining the club from Lens in 2011.
Speculations in recent months have indicated that a move to either Manchester United or Paris Saint-German may be on the cards for Varane. While a return to his home country seems appealing to the Real Mdrid defender, there are rumors that he very much fancies a move to the Premier League as well. The claims have now be fueled by Sky Sports who, on Monday, revealed that United have been given permission to approach Varane.
According to the report, the Red Devils are negotiating personal terms ahead of a potential move from Real Madrid. Should they reach a mutual understanding, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side is expected to begin talks with Real Madrid over a fee. An amount of $70M has been quoted as the probably asking price by the Merengues who have already allowed former skipper and veteran defender Sergio Ramos join Paris Saint-Germain in a free-transfer.
Sky Sports further indicated that Manchester United are cautious in their pursuit as they do not want to be used as a bargain chip by Varane's camp to secure him a better contract extension offer at Real Madrid.
