Arsene Wenger's 'Nearly Signed' XI: Active players who almost played for Arsenal

Centre Back: Raphael Varane

Varane was on Arsenal’s radar

While Wenger has been praised for his attacking football philosophy, there were certain defensive signings he deemed necessary in the 20 years he has been in charge. Signings such as Sol Campbell and Kolo Toure stand out and Wenger did have an eye on a young, up-and-coming French defender who was signed by Real Madrid in 2011.

“When he was at Racing Lens, we tried to get him. We need to ask why he did not want to play with us.

“Varane has shown [Jose] Mourinho that he can count on him. I’m happy for him with the way he has developed.” – Wenger

Varane was making a name for himself in La Liga, especially after he had displaced Portuguese defender Pepe from the lineup. Once a permanent fixture in the XI, Pepe was benched in favour of Varane who partnered Sergio Ramos.