Like it or not, but Raphael Varane’s heart has already set sail for Manchester. And it’s not for money or a better contract if that’s what you’ve been thinking. The Real Madrid centre-back simply wants a new challenge in his career after winning it all during his stay at the Spanish capital on multiple occasions, claims Mario Cortegana.
A move to Manchester United seems inevitable now and the Red Devils are expected to make an official bid soon. Varane, whose contract runs out in 2022, has not shown much interest in a renewal despite Florentino Perez’s efforts.
The French international has won 18 trophies during his decade-long stay at Madrid and is keen on playing out the prime years of his career at a new club in seek of a fresh challenge, which in his case is the Premier League.
So what’s next for Raphael Varane and Real Madrid?
Manchester United are expected to make a formal offer soon for the 28-year-old. Personal terms have never been an issue between Varane, his agent and the Red Devils, as per Fabrizio Romano. Varane does not want to rush the negotiations due to his cordial relationship with the club and Florentino Perez. Once United make a formal bid and it meets Real Madrid’s requirements, the centre-back will be sold to Manchester United permanently.
Meanwhile, for the Merengues, it is unlikely that a replacement will be signed despite the departure of Sergio Ramos to Paris Saint-Germain a few weeks ago. Carlo Ancelotti will have the likes of David Alaba, Eder Militao, Nacho Fernandez and Jesus Vallejo as his centre-back options.
Meanwhile, there have been reports that Ancelotti is considering playing Ferland Mendy as an LCB. This would add more depth to the centre-back position since Mendy can actually be a decent defender due to his defensive prowess.
Biggest questions for Ferland Mendy at CB would be passing ability in build-up play and close control under pressure. That's the real stress test for him there, because he checks off all the boxes defensively. Intelligent, strong, sound in the tackle.
— The Real Champs (@TheRealChampsFS) July 16, 2021
However, his passing ability and his poor decision making when under pressure could be a huge issue if Ancelotti goes ahead with his plans. On the flipside, Mendy playing as CB would open up more chances for Marcelo and Miguel Gutierrez who are lethal attacking left-backs that are required in a 4-3-3 formation.