Raphael Varane and Real Madrid ‘open to reunion’ plus more Manchester United transfer rumours

Manchester United centre-back Raphael Varane is reportedly open to a return to Real Madrid with the Spanish giants said to be willing to consider a reunion.

The Frenchman has slipped down the pecking order under Erik ten Hag with Harry Maguire taking his spot amid improved form. The Frenchman missed Saturday’s 2-0 defeat to West Ham due to illness after an experienced display in last weekend’s goalless draw with Liverpool.

The defender’s contract expires this summer but there is a club one-year option and Varane intends to stay beyond January. However, Sir Jim Ratcliffe is said to be bringing a more cut-throat transfer policy if and when he assumes sporting control of the club.

READ MORE: United’s £158.3m mistakes cost them again at West Ham

READ MORE: Erik ten Hag explains what went wrong vs West Ham

If Varane is to leave, AS claims the player would be open to a return to Madrid, who he left to join United in a £41m deal in 2021. Los Blancos boss Carlo Ancelotti welcomes the prospect, the report adds, although such conversations have not taken place among the hierarchy.

Varane will be 31 in the summer having suffered persistent injury problems at Old Trafford. The centre-half has previously said Madrid and boyhood club Lens are the only two next career moves he would consider. Ten Hag has denied there is a rift between him and the player despite his reduced role this season.

Meanwhile, United have apparently shortlisted Sevilla attacker Youssef En-Nesyri as a potential future transfer option. The Sun says the club have sent scouts to watch the 26-year-old, who has nine goals in 24 appearances this season. It says the Moroccan may cost as little as £16million with Sevilla currently battling financial difficulty and