This summer looks set to be a massive one for Manchester United.
Memphis Depay’s arrival is already effectively sealed, and with a return to the Champions League booked, both the appeal and the funds are in place to make sure the Dutchman is followed by some truly world-class players.
The transfer rumour mill has thrown out many names of late, but one catching the eye right now is Real Madrid’s Raphael Varane.
A composed, classy and young centre-back, the France international appears to be just what Louis van Gaal needs… and here are FIVE reasons why a deal makes sense.
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A centre-back is desperately needed
It’s often said that strikers win you games and defenders win you titles, and with Man United now firmly back in the picture as one of England’s top dogs after a season in the wilderness, the Premier League trophy has to be on the agenda for Louis van Gaal.
For much of last term the Dutchman struggled to settle on a system and personnel, with injuries disrupting his plans and forcing him into emergency measures – such as Michael Carrick and Daley Blind at centre-back.
It’s pretty obvious then that at least one defensive addition is needed, and Varane would add quality and depth to LVG’s squad.
He’s gettable
While Varane is a valued and highly-rated player at Real, his game time has been somewhat limited by the presence of Sergio Ramos and Pepe.
The aforementioned pair are seen as experienced campaigners, which has frequently led to a role dipping in and out of the XI for the young Frenchman.
So, perhaps the lure of guaranteed playing time and a key role could sway Varane? United can offer him just that, with the ex-Lens man’s quality far greater than any options Van Gaal can call upon as it stands.
One of the best young defenders around
In a period in which top quality defenders are few and far between and young options are even thinner on the ground, Varane really is one of the best around.
Composed on the ball, athletic, positionally aware and experienced in the biggest competitions, the 22-year-old has it all.
Standing at 6ft. 3”, he also has the physical presence some younger players lack, and such a frame could see him adapt well to the more robust style of the Premier League.
De Gea could be used as a bargaining tool
Man United well and truly have the upper hand over Real Madrid in terms of negotiations right now, with David de Gea their trump card.
The goalkeeper is seemingly desperate to join Los Blancos, who are equally keen, but the Red Devils are in no desperate need to sell, even though his contract is set to expire in just over 12 months’ time.
Although swap deals rarely come off nowadays, a more receptive stance toward Varane could be thrown into the mix for De Gea, which would ease the door open for United to land the Frenchman.
The money is in place…
£200m. Well, that’s the figure doing the rounds courtesy of Robin van Persie in regards to the summer transfer kitty at Old Trafford.
United threw cash at the situation last summer to book a Champions League return, and with the increased TV revenue from the Premier League allied to ticket sales and European action (as well as sponsorship deals), even more money is in place.
Paying up to £40m for Varane would barely make a dent in a £200m in Van Gaal’s war chest, so there’s every chance a deal could be pushed through…