Raphael Varane is unlikely to leave Manchester United for Bayern Munich in the January transfer window due to his lofty salary, according to reports. And the French defender’s previous comments suggest a switch to Germany isn’t in his plans despite losing his place in Erik ten Hag’s team.
Varane was a staple of Ten Hag’s successful maiden season at United, forming a formidable centre-back partnership with Lisandro Martinez.
But he’s struggled to replicate his form this term, while injury problems have persisted to compile on United’s miserable opening months.
The 30-year-old started the season as one of the first names on Ten Hag’s teamsheet after he sanctioned Harry Maguire’s collapsed £30million move to West Ham United.
So the fact Maguire started his eighth successive game against Luton Town last Saturday is as much a damning indicator of Varane’s situation as it is a testament to the former captain’s form.
Varane has been limited to a bench role in recent weeks due to Ten Hag’s belief that he can’t effectively play on the left side of the defensive duo.
That has sparked concerns about the pair’s relationship and, subsequently, murmurs linking the World Cup winner with a move away.
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Sky Germany report that Bayern are internally discussing a pursuit of Varane after being informed that a January departure is possible.
United are said to want at least £17m for his signature, but a switch to Bavaria remains unrealistic due to his current salary worth around £350,000 a week.
However, Varane has claimed as recently as this year that he only sees himself leaving Old Trafford to retire at two clubs, neither of which are Bayern.
In March, the out-of-favour No 19 confirmed that he plans to retire at one of the three clubs he’s played for during his illustrious career – Lens, Real Madrid or United.
Varane told GQ France: “I will finish my career either in Madrid, or in Manchester, or in Lens. I will not move to another club [other than those].
“But Madrid seems complicated to me. Players don’t usually go back there. The most likely outcome today is that I will finish [my club career] in either Manchester or Lens.”
Maguire will likely start United’s Premier League trip to Everton on Sunday alongside Victor Lindelof. Luke Shaw’s imminent return to fitness will offer Ten Hag another option.
However, Varane won’t be happy with his current status, which could spark a change of heart from his comments eight months ago.
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