Recent reports from Spanish media outlet DefensaCentral suggest that Manchester United’s pursuit of Raphael Varane is far from over as Ole Gunnar Solksjaer looks keen on signing the 28-year-old centre-back from Real Madrid in the coming months to add to his defensive options ahead of the new season.
The report further states that talks between Varane and Real have ended as the Los Blancos are unwilling to offer more than €9m per year, whereas the France international wants to be on the same pay scale as David Alaba (€10m-€11m). On the other hand, Manchester United are quite happy to offer him a staggering €12m-a-year wages as Solskjaer believes the centre-back will play a crucial role in stabilising United’s defence next season.
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 0.6 blocks per 90 minutes in the La Liga (calculated over 31 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 3.5 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, as 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 perfectly.
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)
