Raphael Varane’s imminent deparature from Real Madrid to Manchester United could be part of a larger plan to bring Paris Saint-Germain’s Kylian Mbappe to the Bernabeu.
Sources have told ESPN’s Rob Dawson that Madrid and United have agreed to deal for Varane’s services with a transfer fee of approximately €41 million, plus add-ons totaling €8.2m.
Marca has now stated that Los Blancos are letting the Varane depart in order to get their finances in a state where they are able to make a move for fellow France star Mbappe.
PSG will reportedly demand at least €180m if they listen to offers at all, despite the Mbappe’s contract expiring in 2022, who is also expecting €20m-per-year in wages.
Varane’s move to Old Trafford can help to ensure they are able to meet those figures. Madrid also shed €15m in salary after letting Sergio Ramos leave on a free transfer to PSG.
Despite the departures of Varane and Ramos, Madrid are also not expected to sign new centre-backs. This means that Victor Chust, Mario Gila and Jesus Vallejo will be fighting for the spot behind newly arrived David Alaba, Nacho and Eder Militao in the pecking order.
It is also suggested that Lucas Vazquez was kept on because his low wages make him a cheaper option than signing a new player, with Madrid not expected to make any other big signings this offseason.
•Story culled from ESPN