With the World Cup now over, transfer rumours have started to fly around more frequently. For Manchester United fans, it also means their new manager, Louis Van Gaal, has now arrived in Manchester to take care of any business Edward Woodward failed to complete during the World Cup.
Reports from the British media suggest the Dutch manager is far from happy with some of the members of the current squad and would be prepared to get rid of up to 10 players currently at the club to make room for other players coming in.
If Le10 Sport in France are to be believed, one of those players could very well be France international and Real Madrid defender Raphaël Varane.
According to the French magazine, the player has been trying to renew his contract with the Champions League winners. During their first meeting on the subject, the two parties had agreed to meet later on to discuss a contract prolongation, which would also include a considerable wage increase for the France international.
The problem is, Real Madrid have been delaying these contract talks and rumour has it that Varane and his entourage have already shown signs of impatience. This is where Manchester United come in.
Le10 Sport state that the club previously contacted Real Madrid to check on Varane's availability and, in the process, will have heard that contract talks between the two parties were at a standstill, leaving Manchester United with the perfect opportunity to pounce.
After a dismal season under David Moyes last year, the Red Devils are adamant not to repeat last summer's failings in the transfer market and have shown their willingness to spend money when necessary. Were Manchester United to offer Varane a large contract offer, Real Madrid would be put in a rather uncomfortable position, especially if they carry on their reluctance to meet Varane's demands.
Varane isn't the only centre-back linked with Manchester United, but if their reported pursuit of Hummels hits an unexpected obstacle, Varane isn't the worst back-up option, is he?
