Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag addresses Raphael Varane's future and possible striker signing

Erik ten Hag is unaware of any speculation surrounding Raphael Varane's future at Manchester United.

Varane has been usurped by Harry Maguire at centre half and Ten Hag has selected Jonny Evans and Victor Lindelof over Varane in the last four games the Frenchman has been available for.

Maguire is expected to start his ninth consecutive game for United against Everton at Goodison Park on Sunday but Varane could be benched again as Ten Hag believes Lindelof, the matchwinner against Luton Town two weeks ago, is more comfortable on the left side of defence.

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Varane, 30, is contracted to United until 2025 and the club has the option of an additional year but there have been suggestions they could offload the four-time Champions League winner next year.

"Rapha Varane: I don't know what you're talking about," Ten Hag said. "It's rumours. Very important player, but there's internal competition and there should be at a top club, as we are.

"And when you decide on two players who do brilliant - Raphael Varane and Harry Maguire - you also have to make a choice for that position."

United have mustered a meagre 13 goals in 12 Premier League games and Marcus Rashford is the only forward who has scored in the league. Rashford has managed one goal in 16 club games this term while £72million striker signing Rasmus Hojlund is still scoreless in the league.

The January transfer window opens in just over a month's time and United are expected to try and sell Jadon Sancho and Donny van de Beek. The Ineos Group's minority stake is due to be confirmed next week and Ten Hag could have funds to sharpen a blunt attack.