Raphael Varane linked with return to former club as manager admits signing Man Utd star would make him 'the happiest coach'

The 2018 World Cup winner could potentially retrace his steps back to his boyhood club as a free agent, where he began his professional career before achieving global recognition with Real Madrid, according to Foot Mercato. Varane made his professional debut with the Sang et Or in the 2010-2011 season and went on to play 24 matches before the Spanish giants snapped him up in a transfer worth €10 million (£8.6m/$11m).

Although the potential to sign Varane without a transfer fee is an enticing prospect, his wages could pose a significant challenge for Lens to match. Nonetheless, coach Franck Haise expressed his interest in bringing the defender back to the club and hailed his qualities as a player and leader.

"Obviously Raphael Varane can interest me, by his qualities as a player, by his qualities as a leader, by his human qualities, by everything he represents and by everything he is still capable of giving," Haise said before facing Montpellier this Sunday.

"Certainly, the financial aspects don't just depend on me, but if there was a possibility I would be the happiest coach."

Varane himself has previously mentioned that he envisions retiring at one of three clubs: Real Madrid, Manchester United, or RC Lens. "I will finish my career either in Madrid, or in Manchester, or in Lens," he stated.

"I will not move to another club [other than those]. But Madrid seems complicated to me. Players don’t usually go back there. The most likely outcome today is that I will finish [my career] in either Manchester or Lens."

Despite the logistical and financial hurdles, the prospect of Varane ending his illustrious career where it started holds a sentimental appeal for both the player and the fans.

While a return to Lens remains a possibility, Varane is also attracting interest from other clubs. Notably, Liga MX side Tigres has been linked with a move for the Frenchman. Additionally, Saudi Pro League teams, Juventus, and Bayern Munich are reportedly monitoring his situation closely.

However, Varane's immediate focus is on finishing the season with Manchester United on a high note. He might return to action against Brighton on the final matchday of the Premier League season or might be held back for the crucial FA Cup final against Manchester City, where he hopes to help United secure silverware and end the season positively.