Recent reports from The Mirror suggest that Manchester United are keen on signing Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane in the upcoming transfer window as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer looks set to add to his options at the back.
The report further states that the Norwegian tactician has made Varane his number-one target as the Frenchman is being viewed as the ideal candidate to partner skipper Harry Maguire at the heart of Manchester United’s backline.
Another report from the Daily Mail states that United are preparing a bid in the region of £40million for the defender who has another year remaining on his present contract.
What Will The Defensive Ace Bring To The Theatre Of Dreams?
The 73-times France international has spent a decade at the Spanish capital, bagging 359 appearances in all competitions, winning 18 trophies over the course of his stay. So, it goes without saying that Varane would bring plenty of experience to the English side and help them build a winning mentality.
Even this season, the Spanish international managed to put up some impressive numbers on the board. Varane averages 0.7 tackles, 1.2 interceptions, and 0.5 blocks per 90 minutes in the La Liga (calculated over 30 appearances). Moreover, with 3.6 long balls played per game with an overall pass accuracy of 89.6%, he has been one of the standout performers of his side this term. These numbers underline his capabilities of holding on to the ball when needed and how he can pick up the right man on the other side of the pitch to start counter-attacks effortlessly – the main element of Solskjaer’s style.
Standing at 1.91m, Varane has won almost half of his aerial duels while making 3.7 clearances per game, thereby asserting his dominance in and around the 18-yard-box.
Can He Solve Solskjaer’s Defensive Problems?
Given the present circumstances, signing a quality centre-back should be the board’s first priority once the summer transfer window opens. It’s beyond any doubt that the Red Devils certainly need to upgrade their options at the back. Ole Gunnar Solksjaer is reportedly looking for an experienced centre-back to try and solve their issues at the back – and Raphael Varane fits the bill.
An injury to Harry Maguire forced Solskjaer to start Eric Bailly and Victor Lindelof against Liverpool on Thursday, but the duo ended up conceding four goals. If there’s anything positive to be taken from the game, it’s the fact that Solskjaer now has a clear idea about the areas that need to be strengthened in the summer. Varane’s move to Old Trafford will mean that he instantly replaces Victor Lindelof in the starting XI, keeping the Swedish international on his knees.
At 28, the France international still has a lot to offer, so it won’t be a complete surprise if United break the bank to secure his signature.
(Stats from WhoScored)
