In a recent print edition, Sport (19 December, Page 20) mentioned that Real Madrid are hoping to re-sign Manchester United defender Raphael Varane this January. It has been stated that Los Blancos are eyeing a move to bring the French talent back to the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium following David Alaba’s injury recently.
Varane’s Difficult Season In The Premier League
Varane has endured a tough campaign at Old Trafford as he has struggled to earn regular playing time in the Premier League. The France international has only made 14 appearances for the Red Devils this season, scoring one goal in all competitions.
The 30-year-old has proven his worth at times by averaging 0.6 tackles and 3.9 clearances per 90 minutes in the Premier League. He has even been accurate when distributing possession from inside his half after making 90.9% of his attempted passes in league football (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at the Mancunian club will run out in the summer of 2025. Therefore, it makes sense for Real Madrid to try and arrange a cut-price move for him next year.
Is Varane A Good Choice For Real Madrid?
Varane is a tough-tackling defender who can time his challenges well to earn the ball back for his team inside his half. He usually clears his lines when the opposition are on the front foot. Standing at 1.91m, the French defensive ace can be a dominant presence in the air. He is even proficient at playing his way out from the back. However, injuries have derailed his progress recently.
Still, Varane had a very successful spell at Real Madrid and might benefit from sealing a return to his old club. Carlo Ancelotti is in dire need to find a suitable replacement for David Alaba who suffered a serious injury recently. Hence, Varane fits the bill perfectly as he would serve as an ideal, short-term fix to Los Blancos‘ defensive concerns.
At 30, the Man United talent has still got a few good years left in him to play at a high level. Thus, it makes sense for the Madrid giants to try and lure him back to Spain when the transfer window reopens at the start of next month as he would be a decent choice for them in the short term.
