REAL MADRID star Raphael Varane has ‘given his word’ that he wants to join Manchester United this summer, according to reports.
The Frenchman, 28, has played for the Spanish giants for a decade.
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But with just one year remaining on his contract, the towering defender wants to try something new.
The Red Devils finally wrapped up the £73million signing of Jadon Sancho this week.
And club chiefs want to follow up the statement purchase by recruiting Varane.
According to Spanish paper Sport, the feeling is mutual, with Varane eager to join Man United and telling them as much.
They also claim that his Real Madrid departure this summer is ‘inevitable’.
ABC Sports even claim that Varane has agreed personal terms with the Red Devils.
But the two clubs are yet to agree a fee.
Real Madrid are thought to want around £51.5m for their star centre-back’s services – despite him being free to talk to other clubs in January.
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They could, however, find a compromise.
SunSport yesterday exclusively revealed that United could sweeten a deal by including midfielder Donny van de Beek.
The Dutchman, 24, has struggled at Old Trafford, making just four starts in the Premier League since joining for £35m last summer.
Real Madrid remain keen on him, however, having nearly signed him last year.
The LaLiga giants are struggling financially, but United’s co-operation could help move along a deal for Varane.
Madrid want to take Van de Beek initially on loan, paying a £2m fee upfront before buying him permanently next summer.
He returned to Man United pre-season training this morning, but where he’ll be playing his football next term remains up in the air.
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