Transfer Target Analysis: Raphael Varane

Since the start of the Summer Transfer Window there has been consistent talk between the Red Devils and Los Blancos over centre back Raphael Varane. Here is an overview of what Varane has accomplished, what he can bring to Manchester United, and the latest updates on the potential move.

What do we know about Varane?

Raphael Varane is one of the best centre backs of this generation. At only 24 years of age he won 3 UEFA Champions League Titles, making him the youngest defender ever to win the title 3 times, and beating the legendary Paulo Maldini who achieved the feat at 26 years of age. Real Madrid secured his services almost a decade from Lens where he showed much promise and talent.

Varane was a revelation for Los Blancos and became the defensive partner to Sergio Ramos from whom he learned a lot about leadership, defensive tactics and skills. Raphael Varane has a long list of titles at just only 28 years of age, 4x UCL, 3x LaLiga, 1x Copa Del Rey, 3x Spanish Super Cup, 4x Club World Cup, 3x UEFA Super Cup and a World Cup. (That’s a long list). Real Madrid couldn’t have achieved the 3 Peat without the contributions of Varane to the team.

Recent Performances

Varane’s defensive performances were above expectations in the 19/20 season as Real Madrid won LaLiga and conceded only 25 goals during the course of the 38 games.

But if we see the performances of Varane in the 20/21 season, it’s good but not great. Several times during the season his mistakes proved fatal for the Men in White, and they weren’t able to keep a good defensive record at end of the long and hard season.

He netted Two times in the 20/21, both coming on the same match against Huesca, but he also popped the ball into his own net 2 times during the season.

Strengths

Raphael Varane is a rock solid defender and he uses his height and pace to keep opponent attackers at bay. He is good at outrunning opponents when they manage to put up a through ball behind the backline. With the experience and skills he gained from the 13 times European Champions, he is a leader on the pitch and has the ability to dictate the positioning of defenders, and also doesn’t make reckless tackles. The Frenchman is also known to have a calm attitude which helps him to anticipate through balls and other defensive splitting skills of his opponents.

Being 1.91m tall genuinely has its advantages and he uses his height to the fullest. A threat to the opposition from set pieces and a master at headed clearances will also come with the package if United can secure his services.

Raphael Varane to United updates as reported by Fabrizio Romano

New updates for @raphaelvarane’s future with Manchester United pushing to sign him

- Raphaël Varane and his agents confirmed to Real Madrid his desire to try a new experience in the Premier League.

- Real Madrid were trying again to change his mind... but together with his representatives, Varane also confirmed to Manchester United that he’d be ‘ready’ to accept their contract bid until June 2026 if the agreement will be completed with Real Madrid. Personal terms almost agreed since days and never been a problem.