Shock return on the cards? Real Madrid line up move for Man Utd's Raphael Varane after losing David Alaba to season-ending knee injury

The Spanish giants have been forced to mull over signing a defensive reinforcement as both their first-choice centre-backs in Alaba and Militao are out injured and currently recovering from ACL injuries. According to a report by Christian Falk, Real Madrid view Varane as the ideal choice to strengthen their defence under manager Carlo Ancelotti. Varane, currently with Manchester United, has not been a regular starter this season, leading to speculation about a potential move away from Old Trafford.

Varane was signed by Manchester United in 2021 for a reported £40 million ($49m) deal after he decided to reject a new contract at Real Madrid. However, the 2018 World Cup winner has struggled for starts this season in the Premier League and now has even found himself below 35-year-old Jonny Evans in the pecking order.

Varane has played 77 matches for the Red Devils but has made only nine league appearances this campaign under Erik ten Hag as United find themselves in seventh spot with just two wins in their last five matches.

According to Fichajes, the Red Devils want €35 million (£30m) to part ways with the defender whose contract ends in just over 18 months at Old Trafford. It remains to be seen if Los Blancos agree to cough up such a hefty amount for a player who will turn 31 next summer. Madrid have also been linked with Portuguese defenders Goncalo Inacio and Antonio Silva.