Raphael Varane targeted by surprise club following Manchester United exit: Reports

Raphael Varane, who will depart Manchester United at the end of his contract this month, has reportedly attracted attention from Como.

Varane, 31, moved to the Red Devils in a switch worth up to £40 million from Real Madrid in the summer of 2021. However, he struggled to replicate his earlier form at his new club, making 95 appearances.

Last season, the 2018 FIFA World Cup winner endured a stop-start season for the Old Trafford outfit. He missed 12 games across competitions due to injuries as he started 25 of his 32 overall appearances.

Now, acclaimed transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has claimed that Como are keen to add Varane to their ranks after getting promoted from Serie B last campaign. He wrote on X:

"Como's dream target for the centre-back position is Raphael Varane as free agent. [Como co-owner and assistant manager] Cesc Fabregas wants Varane and they will try to make it happen, but there are several clubs interested in Europe and abroad – not an easy one. Varane will decide his future soon."

With Varane departing and Victor Lindelof likely to be sold, Manchester United are currently scouring the market for a top defender. They are reportedly keeping tabs on the likes of Jarrad Branthwaite, Marc Guehi, Jean-Clair Todibo, and Leny Yoro ahead of the next term.

Manchester United interested in signing 27-year-old English defender, claims journalist

Speaking to GiveMeSport, reliable journalist Ben Jacobs claimed that Manchester United could launch a move for Wolverhampton Wanderers defender Max Kilman. He said:

"I would keep an eye on Max Kilman, who Manchester United have discussed since April. Even though the expectation is that if he departs, it could be for West Ham United and a reunion with Julian Lopetegui."

Shedding light on the 27-year-old's asking price, Jacobs concluded:

"The number that Wolves would sell for could be too much for West Ham, because I'm told that Wolves don't want to lose their captain, but if they do, it's going to be for around £45 million. And it may be that West Ham walk away at that kind of number, opening the door potentially for Manchester United."

Kilman, whose current deal is set to run out in June 2028, has been an established first-team starter for Wolves for a host of seasons. He has made 151 appearances for them so far, scoring thrice in the process.

Should the English defender join Erik ten Hag's side, he would provide competition to Lisandro Martinez for the left-sided defensive position.