Reports: Real Madrid tell Manchester United that they can sign superstar for £53.5 million

What's the rumour?

Manchester United have been linked with Raphael Varane before and now latest reports in HITC (via Don Balon) claim that Real Madrid have told the Red Devils that they can sign Raphael Varane in the summer if they pay a fee of €60 million (£53.5 million).

One of the best ball-playing centre backs in the world at the moment, Varane would definitely be an asset to Jose Mourinho's Manchester United side.

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Future Red Devil?

Jose Mourinho is reportedly a huge fan of the French international. Having brought him to Real Madrid in 2011 from French side Lens, the Portuguese manager gave Varane his breakthrough in the Madrid first team.

Still only 24, Varane already has the experience of playing in a top club. Blessed with immense speed and great technical skills, the French defender would be an excellent buy for just £53.5 million.

Although Varane has only made 19 starts in the league this season and has somewhat struggled to play at his best, there is no doubting his immense potential and he will be expected to step up his game in the business end of this season.

The heart of the matter

Eric Bailly has been brilliant for Manchester United ever since he arrived last season, but the likes of Smalling and Victor Lindelof have not always inspired confidence in the United faithful.

Varane's potential arrival will not only add defensive solidity, but it will also allow the Red Devils to build attacks from the back as the Frenchman is definitely a skilled operator on the ball. With the likes of Van Dijk costing £75 million, a £53.5 million fee for Varane looks like an excellent bargain.

Rumour rating/probability

5/10

While United have been linked with Varane before, it seems highly unlikely that Los Blancos will be willing to lose one of their most gifted players for just £53.5 million in the summer transfer window.

Also, Don Balon is not a very trusted source and their reports should definitely be taken with a pinch of salt.

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Author's take

If Varane is indeed for sale, Manchester United should do everything in their power to sign the talented 24-year-old.

On the other hand, although Nacho has performed well whenever called upon, it makes no sense for Los Blancos to sell one of their best defenders in the summer and this move looks highly unlikely to go through in the coming transfer window.