Report: Raphael Varane has asked to leave Real Madrid this summer
By Hasan Karim
This has been a very tough season for Real Madrid. Already contending with the loss of major star, Cristiano Ronaldo, exiting all competitions unceremoniously and finishing trophyless. Now the boat is rocked once more as Raphael Varane has reportedly asked to exit the club.
Raphael Varane has won nearly everything during his time at Real Madrid both domestically and internationally. When one considers he is still only merely 26 years of age, his resume appears even more impressive.
However, despite serial success in Spain, the French World Cup winning defender is reportedly seeking a move away from the club. Whilst the rumours had been circulating for a few weeks, reputable Madrid based journalist, Jose Luis Sanchez, has stated that the defender has formally asked to leave the club.
With the news sending shockwaves throughout the Madrid fanbase, all eyes have turned to head coach, Zinedine Zidane. The returning coach has already discussed the matter recently where he said: “There is a lot of talk here. People can think and write what they want but the only thing that matters is what the player thinks and he has done very well here, he has already been here eight years and has done phenomenally. I’ve seen the talk lately but I see a happy player who is involved in what he does.”
Despite saying the player is happy, the reports are concerning. Particularly when some of the more reputable journalists are saying he has asked to leave. Whilst other reports suggest Zidane is trying to mediate the situation, where could Varane go?
He has eyes on him from all round Europe including Premier League giants, Manchester United and Serie A holders, Juventus. His skillset and trophy cabinet is certain to ensure he has plenty of suitors, although, Real Madrid will certainly have a hard time replacing such a colossal talent.
Next. Why Zidane needs to be careful in the summer window. dark
With the club having already signed Militao from Porto, they will fill the gap should Varane depart the club. The targets they have in mind are Inter Milan’s Milan Skriniar, Kalidou Koulibaly or Matthijs De Ligt.
With his exit expecting to bring in €150m in transfer fee, Real Madrid will certainly have a sizeable amount to spend on his replacement. However, could they ever truly replace such a huge figure?