Real Madrid 'interested' in shock return for Manchester United player and more transfer rumours

Real Madrid are interested in a sensational return for defender Raphael Varane amid an injury crisis in central defence, according to reports.

Madrid will be without first-team regular David Alaba for the remainder of the season after the Austrian ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament during Sunday's 4-1 win over Villarreal. He joins fellow centre-back Eder Militao, who suffered the same injury earlier this season, in the treatment room.

It leaves Carlo Ancelotti short of senior defensive options and they look set to enter the January transfer market, with BILD journalist Christian Falk reporting on interest in Varane. The French international only left the Bernabeu for United in 2021 but after an excellent season in Erik ten Hag's debut campaign, he has been usurped by Harry Maguire.

The Manchester Evening News understands Varane is among five players who could leave United in January, although Ten Hag is keen to avoid weakening his squad. Any exit would likely depend on the club's ability to bring in alternative reinforcements, with the aim being to lower the age profile.

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Elsewhere, The Sun reports that United are keeping tabs on Real Sociedad winger Takefusa Kubo.

Ten Hag is expected to be in the market for a new attacker, whether it be in January or next summer, with Jadon Sancho set to leave after his public fallout with the manager. There is also frustration around Antony's failure to kick on, but he has performed better in recent weeks.

The report adds that United have sent scouts to watch Kubo on 'at least seven occasions' during the first-half of the campaign.