Manchester United are “hopeful and happy” over Raphael Varane’s proposed move to Old Trafford, 90 minutes have been told.
The French midfielder has been a target for United for a decade – they originally tried to sign Varane before joining Real Madrid in 2011 – but now look better than ever to finally take the 28-year-old to Old Trafford.
United have spoken to Real Madrid and made it clear they do not want to pay more than £ 50 million for the player, who is out of contract for 12 months. Varane has so far refused to sign a new contract at the Santiago Bernabeu and is investigating the possibility of a new challenge, with United in front of the queue.
Varane has been told by Real that he can talk to possible suitors about a move, even if he has not asked for a transfer. And although there is a possibility that he can still agree on a new deal to stay in the Spanish capital, talks with United continue.
90min has learned that United believe that personal terms are only agreed and RMC Sport journalist Mohamed Bouhafsi also states that an agreement is close to being reached between United and the player.
There are still some doubts in the line that Varane will follow up with the move to England, but United have this week been encouraged by his intentions by the Frenchman’s representatives.
Villarreal’s Pau Torres was United’s top scorer before the opportunity to sign Varane arose / Quality Sport Images / Getty Images
Sources close to the situation have told us that things are seen more positively by United and say: “There is still some caution, but talks with the player’s representatives are going well and they are just as hopeful and happy – they can see the finish line.”
United’s concerns over Varane were one reason they are still in dialogue with Pau Torres from Villarreal – who the club’s scouts had previously highlighted as their top midfielder this summer before the opportunity to sign Varane arose.
